#6. Juan Miranda, 1B
Position: P Full Name: David Robertson
Born: April 25, 1983 Consulacion del Sur, Cuba
Height: 6' 0" Weight: 220 Bats: L Throws: L

Signed by the Yankees in 2006 with a 4-year, $4 million contract after being in limbo for two years as a Cuban defector. Miranda can hit! His 16 HRs and 96 RBIs in A-AA ball last season is an indication. Juan does strike out a little too much (when his swing gets long; 106 Ks in 446 ABs), but he did sport a .350 OBP and .471 SLG last season. Considering his two-year layoff from professional baseball, the Yankees were extremely pleased with his offensive showing last season and they believe he could provide a powerful left-handed soon; especially since this is the final year of Jason Giambi's contract.

“Juan Miranda has impressed our scouts with his talent and his strength,” Yankees Dominican Republic scouting supervisor Ramon Valdivia said. “His biggest asset is his bat. He has the ability to hit for power while showing excellent plate discipline. We’re excited to see what he can contribute to the future of this ballclub.”

Despite Miranda's weakness with LHP, we feel that Juan could see significant playing time; especially in the second half of this season. Jason Giambi can be expected to miss playing time and the rest (Shelly Duncan, etc.) have yet to prove themselves. Another powerful left-handed bat could be in the future soon for the New York Yankees.