More On Cano's Slow Start

Earlier today I posted something about Bob Klapisch's article that said Cano's struggles are holding the Yankees back, which is probably true. But Jerry Crasnick is not worried about Cano and doesn't think you should be either.

When Joe Torre compared Cano to Rod Carew in 2005, he wasn't necessarily predicting multiple batting titles. But Cano's fluid stroke, quick hands and mature approach have made a lot of baseball people believe there'll be at least one or two in his long-term future.

In the meantime, he's not immune to the occasional slump. Cano starts with his weight on his front foot, then gradually rocks back and loads as the pitcher begins his delivery. If the process is slightly off kilter, the consequences can be profound.

"He's such a rhythm and timing hitter, and his timing is a little bit off right now," said an American League scout. "I think it's just a case of, 'Wait until April is over.'"

Cano is hitting .139 with runners on base, and manager Joe Girardi recently gave him a day off against Tampa Bay. After Cano produced a game-winning pinch-hit homer, hitting coach Kevin Long observed that it might be just the thing to get him jump-started. Not yet.

Concern level: 2. Hey, he's still a decent bet to be hitting .300 by the All-Star break.

Unlike my concerns about Giambi, I am very confident that Cano will turn it around. And like I said it the previous post, his opposite field double yesterday is a good sign that this may happen sooner rather than later.