Jorge Posada and Randy Johnson - Can They Do It?

Jorge Posada has made it clear that his top prioirty this season is to develop a good working relationship with Randy Johnson.

Take a look at the body language in this picture. You can see how eager Jorge is to be respectful and friendly with Randy Johnson. (Photo by the AP)

Randy, on the other hand, is taking more of a low key approach to his relationship with Jorge. He told reporters yesterday that the bottom line is that he has to pitch well, regardless of who is sitting behind the plate.

It's extremely important to Jorge that he and Randy develop a good working relationship this year.

First of all, Posada needs 81 appearances behind the plate to earn a guaranteed salary of 12 million for the 2007 season.

Secondly, Posada's bat carries more power than any other catcher around. And the Yankees need Posada to play in every playoff game. To lose Posada's bat every time Randy Johnson takes the mound in a playoff game would not be favorable to the Yankees offense.

Finally, Posada is looking beyond the hope of locking in his 12 million for 2007. He is genuinely passionate and proud to be a Yankee, and is undoubtedly looking to finish his career in pinstripes. A great 2006 season will go a long way to Posada earning one final contract with the Yankees before retirement. Such a contract might only be for 2 years for 4-7 million dollars per season, but this would allow Posada to maintain his legacy as a lifelong New York Yankee.

Look for Jorge Posada to have a career year in 2006.

- Joshua
InsideTheYankees.com