In short order, we’ll be taking a look at some of the Yankees that Cashman & Co. have to made decisions on. However, before we do, here’s some names that you should familiarize yourself with, if you aren’t aware of them already. These are four prospects that could factor heavily into the decision-making process this offseason.

David Adams, 25, RHB 2B/3B (2008 3rd Round Draft Pick)
Why he’s a factor: Arod Insurance — either if Rodriguez is traded or stays & is hobbled by injuries

Adams had problems staying healthy over the past couple years, but he is a highly-regarded hitter and put it all together in 2012. In 86 games at Double-A, Adams hit .306/.385/.450. Primarily a second baseman for most of his minor league career, the Yankees moved him to third base for part of last season. Little did they know (or did they?) that his transition to third base might pay dividends rather quickly, especially if Arod is traded.

Ronnier Mustelier, 28, RHB UTIL (International free-agent)
Why he’s a factor: Ability to play multiple positions could make him next year’s Jayson Nix…except maybe with a bat.

Referring to a 28-year old as a “prospect” isn’t typical, but Mustelier has only been in the organization for 2 years since being signed out of Cuba. He’s moved very quickly, hitting at every level, and ended last season with a .303/.359/.455 in 89 games at Triple-A. During his 2 seasons with the Yankees, he’s played LF, RF, CF, 3B, and 2B.

Corban Joseph, 23, LHB 2B (2008 4th Round Draft Pick)
Why he’s a factor: Trade chip

We wrote a bunch about Corban Joseph last season and even interviewed him. Joseph had a breakout year at AAA in 2012, hitting .266/.366/.474. The problem for Joseph is that Robinson Cano is blocking his promotion to the bigs. The Yankees haven’t tried Corban at any other position besides second base, so there’s not much else he can do if he stays with the organization. Theoretically, they could stash him in Triple-A for another season in case Cano’s contract demands become too insane. But, we wouldn’t be surprised to see Joseph traded this offseason.

Mark Montgomery, 22, RHP (2011 11th Round Draft Pick)
Why he’s a factor: He puts up video-game strikeout numbers, likely member of the 2013 bullpen

The Virginia native has blown through the organization, showing no mercy to opposing hitters. Between A+ and Double-A in 2012, he struck out 99 hitters in 64.1 IP (13.8 K/9). He’s now doing the same in the Arizona Fall League (9 K in 5 IP). The comparisons to David Robertson have been fast and furious. If he doesn’t join the big league club right out of spring training, he’s sure to be in the Boogie Down soon thereafter. If Rafael Soriano does leave for a multi-year deal, the addition of Montgomery has the potential to make the shirt-untucker a distant memory.