While the Yankees' recent signings of the market's premium free agents might seem to kill their concept of bolstering the club from within, it actually could help the plan instead.
With CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett in the starting rotation, there might be fewer spots for younger players, but it will maximize their chance of success in those rare slots. Joba Chamberlain no longer has to feel the pressure of attempting to become an ace before his time. Phil Hughes could have the chance to compete for the fifth spot in the rotation rather than have to make up for the loss of an ace such as Johan Santana -- the pitcher the Yankees declined to trade for by keeping Hughes last offseason.
And with Mark Teixeira in the lineup, second baseman Robinson Cano doesn't have to worry about taking on the No. 3 spot in the lineup and can try to come back from a poor season without the weight of the Yankees' offense resting on his not-so-broad shoulders.
The late '90s Yankees had their young players step up, but they were also complemented by veteran free agents who could lead the way. Granted, Derek Jeter emerged immediately, but the Yankees' captain is a rare type of player.
The acquisition of all these stars might limit opportunities for the Yankees' younger players, but the additions also give those few young players the best possible chance to contribute.
