The New York Yankees are absolutely cooking this spring training with a formidable roster at their helm. After a 22-10 win over the Detroit Tigers in the Grapefruit League opener, the team capitalized on the momentum to tighten the grip further. Having said that, as the spring season unravels, let’s explore the Yanks updated opening-day roster projections.
Catchers: Austin Wells, Jose Trevino
While Jose Trevino has been out of action this spring due to a calf injury, he has been performing catching drills. Moreover, the Yankees are confident of the catcher making it to the opening day roster in time without any limitations. Besides, prospect Austin Wells, who made waves with his impressive game awareness last year, will retain his spot on the roster this season as well.
Infielders: Anthony Rizzo (1B), Gleyber Torres (2B), DJ LeMahieu (3B), Anthony Volpe (SS)
Anthony Rizzo has successfully evaded concussion lapses to make a splashing return this spring. Rizzo is expected to handle first-base duties for the coming season. On the other hand, DJ LeMahieu, in a quest for a rebound season, will play third base and bat as leadoff, as confirmed by Aaron Boone earlier. Boone has a lot of faith in the veteran to do right by his job. Additionally, Gleyber Torres, who bagged a record arbitration contract, will continue as second baseman. And Anthony Volpe has a cushion at shortstop in his sophomore season with the Yankees.
Outfielders: Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, Alex Verdugo, Trent Grisham
The dynamic duo of Aaron Judge and Juan Soto will lead the outfield lineup for the 2024 season. Soto is expected to play right field, with Judge being pushed to center for the time being. Additionally, Alex Verdugo was specifically traded to resolve left field’s revolving door. Meanwhile, top prospect Jasson Dominguez is also in play for a roster spot. But he will remain unavailable for the first half of the season due to Tommy John’s recovery. Thus, Trent Grisham will come on board as a backup outfielder.
DH, Utility Options: Giancarlo Stanton (DH), Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswlado Peraza (ULT)
Giancarlo Stanton, in a new avatar this season, will play as a designated hitter to avert injury risks in the outfield. Besides, Oswaldo Cabrera will continue as the Yankees’ primary utility player option. Peraza witnessed an injury scare earlier this week during a spring game. Bu is expected to recover in time and will most probably make it to the opening-day roster for the Yankees this year.
Starting Pitching Rotation: Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Marcus Stroman, Nestor Cortes, Clarke Schmidt
The pitching rotation seems sorted for now. Cole will advance as a defending AL CY Young pitcher, whereas Rodon will seek redemption. Marcus Stroman has a lot to prove, and so does Clarke Schmidt. Meanwhile, Nestor Cortes has looked strong after coming off a rotator cuff strain. Thus, his addition to the rotation is also a massive boost.
Bullpen: Clay Holmes (CL), Nick Burdi, Caleb Ferguson, Victor González, Ian Hamilton, Tommy Kahnle, Jonathan Loáisiga, Luke Weaver
Clay Holmes will be the Yankees closer for the 2024 season. Ian Hamilton, Tommy Kahnle, and Jonathan Loaisiga are coming off respective injury concerns. Thus, they will also be on a quest for redemption this year. Luke Weaver’s addition has garnered a lot of attention. It would be interesting to see how he adapts to this new role.
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