2001 REVIEW: The Yankees came within three outs of winning the World Series, only to be done in by a Luis Gonzalez bloop single in the ninth inning of Game 7. After the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center, the team rode an emotional wave through the playoffs. Roger Clemens returned to Cy Young form, earning his sixth after winning 20 games. Mariano Rivera recorded 50 saves to lead the bullpen.

MANAGER: Joe Torre (seventh season, 583-392 record; 2,816-1,451 overall).

WHO'S NEW: 1B Jason Giambi, from the Athletics; 3B Robin Ventura, from the Mets; OF Rondell White, from the Cubs; OF John Vander Wal, from the Giants; RHP Steve Karsay, from the Braves; LHP David Wells, from the White Sox; IF Ron Coomer, from the Cubs; C Alberto Castillo, from the Blue Jays.

WHO'S GONE: 1B Tino Martinez, to the Cardinals; OF Chuck Knoblauch, to the Royals; 3B Scott Brosius (retired); OF Paul O'Neill (retired); OF David Justice, to the Mets, Athletics; RHP Jay Witasick, to the Giants; RHP Mark Wohlers, to the Indians; IF Clay Bellinger (released); IF Randy Velarde, to the Athletics.

FLASHY PHENOMS: Alfonso Soriano took over at second base when Knoblauch was shifted to the outfield, and performed admirably, hitting .268 with 18 home runs and 73 RBIs. Nick Johnson, discussed at first base for nearly four years, could break into the lineup but his primary duties will be as designated hitter. Johnson fought through a wrist injury last year and impressed Torre and management with his patience.

SURE THINGS: Barring injury, almost every position is set. Torre gets to pick five starters out of a group of six pitchers, three of whom probably would be the No. 1 starter for many teams. Derek Jeter at shortstop is All-Star quality year in and year out, and Giambi figures to flourish. Bernie Williams is a leader in centerfield.

QUESTION MARKS: The only ones are leftfield and rightfield, and who Torre chooses as his top five starters. Shane Spencer will get the chance to hold on to the starting spot in rightfield while White will assume the duties in left. Spencer has to continue to prove that he can hit for average and keep his defense up and White must show he can stay healthy.

-- Compiled by Mike Readling.

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