Analysis of AJ Burnett

Is AJ Burnett's good start a fluke or has AJ turned it around from last year, that's the question we all want to know. Last year Burnett dominated in April and fell off the rest of the year, are we in for the same nonsense this year? I think these first three games are a sign to come for a few reasons.

Reason 1- Russell Martin

AJ looks way more comfortable with Russell, someone who will be in the lineup every time he starts and brings a defensive presence. Russell also showed up for AJ last start. Not with the bat, but with his glove, diving into the dugout to try to make an impressive catch. These actions demonstrate a hustle, a determination, and a desire that may not have been present the past season with Jorge and Cervelli such liabilities behind the plate.

Reason 2- New Pitching Coach

I don't know if Burnett worked well with Dave Eiland, but what I do know is it helps to have a new pitching coach to bring a new perspective in the off season. Burnett seemed really bothered about the way he performed last year and I think he worked hard in the offseason and spent a lot of time with Rothschild to get his head right. We saw evidence of this in the last game he pitched. In the second inning he walked Morneau and Thome and I thought he was going to fall apart like typical AJ. Instead he geared up and got out of the jam and demonstrated a new confidence in tough situations.

Reason 3- The Yankees need him

I think somewhere deep down Burnett is going to will himself to be better this year. it's weird to say that because it's not as if he's going to try harder this year, but I do think there is something to be said for the pressure of the number 2 starter role in a very chaotic rotation. He knows there is a lot that rests on his shoulders and he knows how poorly he pitched last year. He understands he is a key component in this team's success and is doing more than his fair share of extra work to get things going right.

Conclusion

Only time will tell if this is just a couple of good starts in April of if AJ is really going to be a better pitcher, but I think it's the latter. I think between Russell, Rothschild, the pressure, and a year off to get his head right, AJ will continue to thrive and will be back to his 09 self. Let's see him continue that magic tonight...