YANKEES MUST START PREPARING RIVERA'S HEIR NOW

The Yankees have a choice to make, and it must be made over the course of the next few months. They must decide who will replace longtime closer Mariano Rivera. This won't be an easy task, as Rivera has helped the Yankees win five World Series Championships over the past 15 years, while recording the most saves in Major League history. 

The obvious choice to replace Rivera is David Robertson. He had the season of his life last year as the setup man, posting an ERA of 1.08 and giving up a total of one home run all year. He also seems to be cool under pressure, seeming to thrive when the opposing team had runners on base. Also, he has the stuff for the job as his fastball topped out at 94-95 miles per hour, with a good cutter and curveball. The soon-to-be 27-year-old seems like the perfect fit.

On the other hand, Rafael Soriano, the other candidate, went through an injury-plagued 2011 after a stunning 2010 as the Rays closer when he posted a 1.73 ERA. It may be hard for Soriano to go back to being a closer after two years as a setup man. Also, by the time Rivera retires, Soriano will be 33 and past his prime. Besides, Soriano has never pitched well in a big market.

It seems as if the right choice is clear and the Yankees must start preparing Robertson right now.