In a major setback ahead of the 2024 MLB season, the New York Yankees encountered a big injury blow. Infield prospect Oswald Peraza has been ruled out for 6-8 weeks following a shoulder strain injury. Peraza missed 10 days of spring with a shoulder niggle, which worsened over time. As Yanks scheduled additional scans, the official diagnosis brought the team’s worst fears to reality. Regardless, with a few weeks left for opening day, it’s time for the front office to turn to the below-mentioned free agency options to secure infield depth.
Jean Segura
While Jean Segura has passed his prime, he can play second base, shortstop, and third base. That makes him a like-for-like replacement for Oswald Peraza. Jean finished the 2023 season with a .219 average, three homers, and a .556 OPS. While Segura is not a quality defender, his versatility should be a positive for the New York Yankees. The infielder peaked in the 2021 season with the Philadelphia Phillies when he finished with a .294 batting average and a .739 OPS. Overall, Segura is a seasoned infielder who brings a wealth of experience to any team.
Donovan Solano
Donovan Solano is another versatile infielder who could fit well with the New York Yankees. The 36-year-old Colombian infielder has primarily played second base and shortstop in his career but also has experience at third base. Solano had a strong breakout season with the San Francisco Giants in 2019, batting .330 with a .815 OPS and earning an All-Star recognition. While he may not provide the same power as some other infield options, Solano offers a high contact rate and defensive versatility, making him a solid depth option for the Bronx Bombers. Overall, Donovan Solano is an apt veteran bench option to replace Oswald Peraza.
Adalberto Mondesi
Adalberto Mondesi is a younger option for the New York Yankees to consider. He will bring a blend of speed and defense prowess to the infield. The 28-year-old Dominican infielder has played shortstop all his life but also has significant experience at second base and third base. Mondesi is known for his elite speed on the basepaths and dynamic defensive skills, making him a valuable asset. While Mondesi has battled injuries in recent seasons, his upside and athleticism could make him an intriguing option for the Yankees if they are willing to take a chance on his potential. Overall, Mondesi’s pace on the paths makes him an ideal like-for-like replacement for Oswald Peraza on the Yankee opening day roster.
Having said that, the New York Yankees have several free-agent infielders to consider following Oswald Peraza’s shoulder injury. Whether they prioritize experience, versatility, or upside, players like Jean Segura, Donovan Solano, and Adalberto Mondesi could provide valuable depth and support to the Yanks’ infield rotation. With a mere two weeks left for opening day, time, if not for the front office, to take swift action and plug depth holes. In case of an injury outbreak, the lack of depth will be exposed, which is not a good sign for a team with World Series aspirations.
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