The New York Yankees are coming off a disastrous season. They could not make the postseason last year. It was the first time since 2016 that the NY side failed to qualify for the playoffs. Moreover, the Bronx Bombers finished fourth with an awful 82-80 record. They barely managed to maintain the streak of winning seasons. Clearly, they needed to make significant changes. Their offense was terrible, as the NY side had the second-worst batting average. Only the nine-time champions, the Oakland Athletics, had an even worse hitting average than the Yankees.
In the offseason, the 27-time champions made a lot of significant changes, raising their chances to contend for the World Series in 2024. After adding Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo, the offense looked way better. Later, the NY side also landed Marcus Stroman to increase their starting pitcher’s depth. Finally, the Yankees indeed look good to contend for the 2024 title. It would be their 28th World Series win. Currently, there is only one week remaining in the spring training. However, the Bronx Bombers still have a lot of questions regarding their lineup. The roster is still a work in progress.
Yankees Trying To Find The Right Balance In Their Lineup
With around a week to go before the Opening Day, the Yankees were still trying to find the right guy to be their fifth starter. There are several bullpen spots that are up for grabs. Moreover, the Yankees are dealing with a lot of catchers, which seems a bit too many. On top of that, Brian Cashman and the front office might still not be happy with their backup infielder options. Moreover, on the 40-man roster, there are five catchers. Three of them have a lot of experience in the big league. Jose Trevino will certainly be a regular catcher for the team. On the other hand, Austin Wells is just 24 years old. He impressed everybody offensively as well as defensively.
In 11 Grapefruit League Games, Wells posted a .997 OPS. Ben Rortvedt is a strong defensive catcher. But he got off to a slow start at the plate. But Ben has no minor league options like Austin Wells. Hence, the Yankees can waive Rortvedt if he doesn’t crack the roster. On the other hand, Oswald Peraza sustained a shoulder injury. As a result, he will be out of the competition for the backup infield involving Jorbit Vivas, Jeter Downs, and Kevin Smith. Oswaldo Cabrera can be the backup infielder, too. But the Yankees mostly see Cabrera as an outfielder. On the other hand, Kevin Smith can be a true backup for Anthony Volpe as the shortstop.
Brian Cashman Acknowledged The Glut In The Team’s Depth
On Saturday, the Yankees GM told reporters at the Steinbrenner Field that they are dealing with an area of depth. Moreover, Brian Cashman sounded proud of how the guys performed during the spring training. The general manager said players showcased their abilities really well. Hence, Cashman is aware that a dam is about to break one way or the other at the end of the campaign.
Anyway, he is looking forward to chalking up a plan with the team to navigate that. Moreover, Cashman is proud that the guys put themselves in a really good position for consideration. After all, they have more than a couple of big-league catchers sitting there in their camp. Moreover, Cashman gave a hint that the Yankees might sign some more infielders if they shake free of other clubs.
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