The Yankees need the following things to have a successful season:

— Most Important everyday player: The offense needs Alex Rodriguez to avoid extended slumps.

— Most important pitcher: Joba Chamberlain makes the bridge to Mariano Rivera very strong.

— Will have a bigger year than expected: Melky Cabrera will hit better than people think.

— Most likely to disappoint: Kyle Farnsworth, but then again, who other than Joe Girardi and the coaching staff are expecting anything from him?

— Key call up: Right-hander Jeff Marquez will surface at some point. Could be as a reliever or starter.

— Biggest managerial decision: How to find enough at-bats to keep Shelley Duncan sharp. His right-handed power is an asset, but Duncan can’t sit for extended time and be expected to produce.

— Don’t be surprised if …: Jose Molina plays more than any other recent backup catcher to protect Jorge Posada from fatigue.

— Sure to make Yankee fans grumble: When Johan Santana wins 24 games for the Mets.

— The Yankees will make the playoffs if …: Phil Hughes, Ian Kennedy and Joba Chamberlain don’t pitch like the neophytes they are.

— The Yankees will miss the playoffs if …: Phil Hughes, Ian Kennedy and Joba Chamberlain pitch like the neophytes they are.

— Injury that would hurt the most: This is a tie between Rodriguez and Posada.