New York Yankees’ pride as a 27-time World Series champions is at stake this impending 2024 MLB season. Things haven’t been the same since the Bronx Bombers finished outside the postseason last year. Moreover, the 82-80 record season only rubbed salt in the fans’ wounds.
Regardless, ahead of the high-stake season, the New York Yankees kicked off the pre-season grind on a thumping note. The ongoing Grapefruit League has generated nothing but positive results for the team with respect to convincing individual performances. On that note, let’s explore the three players who impressed the most in pinstripes this spring season.
Marcus Stroman
Acquired by the Yankees this offseason, Marcus Stroman has quickly made a strong impression during spring training with his performance on the mound. He pitched four scoreless innings against AL-East rivals Baltimore Orioles. Moreover, the pitcher’s variations were on point, and he looked in good shape. After the outing, Stroman revealed how he was feeling about him with Yanks. He is comfortable in his own skin and very confident of attaining success in pinstripes. Notably, Brian Cashman buried the past to sign Marcus this off-season after Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s sweepstakes failure. Overall, the early signs are promising, and Marcus is only expected to build up from here.
Juan Soto
The 25-year-old who has managed to get all the attention of the Yankee fans this year, Juan Soto, lived up to the hype. He slammed a three-run bomb on debut and followed it up with two more home runs. In nine-at bats so far in spring, Soto has 5 runs, 3 home runs, and 7 RBIs with a .667 batting average. Soto was acquired in a mega seven-player trade deal with the San Diego Padres. With the risk of only a one-year guarantee, the Bronx Bombers would pray for Soto to unleash his true potential in the Bronx. His offensive contribution will lead the team to unimaginable glory. With Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole in their prime, coupled with Soto’s addition, the timing for staking claim on the World Series title couldn’t be better for the Yanks. Thus, overall, Juan Soto’s return to form is a massive positive sign for the Yanks as they gear up for a decisive MLB season.
Anthony Rizzo
Coming off a concussion injury that saw Anthony Rizzo sidelined for the second half of the 2024 season, the first baseman returned with a bang in spring training. With concussion symptoms behind his back, Rizzo hit two home runs and is currently 8-4 in the Grapefruit League. In seven at-bats so far, Rizzo has had 2 runs, 3 hits, 2 home runs, and 6 RBIs whilst maintaining a .429 batting average.
That being said, Rizzo’s return to the lineup holds the utmost significance to the Yankees’ lineup. His consistent hitting and ability to drive in runs have made him a reliable offensive threat. Moreover, with Rizzo anchoring first base, the Yankees have a dependable defender and clutch hitter capable of making an impact in crucial moments. Additionally, the infielder’s veteran presence and leadership in the clubhouse have been invaluable to the franchise.
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