The New York Yankees are gearing up for the new season with high hopes. Last year was too bad for the NY side. They would like to forget the past, but the wound is still too fresh. Last year, the Bronx Bombers could not make the postseason for the first time since 2016. But that was not the worst part. The NY side finished the season with an awful 82-80 record in fourth place in the American League East division. They barely managed to maintain the streak of winning seasons. Nonetheless, it was the worst season for the Yankees in the last 30 years.
There were so many changes the front office had to make. But the Yankees showed intent when they went all-in for signing Juan Soto for a year. Clearly, the 27-time champions are looking for redemption in 2024. After a terrible 2023 season, the NY side wants to gift their fans the joy of experiencing a World Series victory once again. It has been a too long wait. But as the team gets ready for the Opening Day, they still have some problems to solve.
Yankees Manager Worried About Two More Spots To Fill
Lately, the oldest Yankee on the roster sustained a foot injury in camp. DJ LeMahieu is their veteran third baseman who could possibly take the role of the leadoff hitter. The Yankees manager believed DJ was ready for a big season. Hence, losing him due to a foot injury has been a big blow for the NY side ahead of the Opening Day. The Pinstripes still look unsettled at the back end of their roster. However, the injury to DJ has made the team look for bench help as a domino effect. LeMahieu will miss at least the first seven games on the road after the Opening Day.
Now, as per The New York Post, Oswaldo Cabrera might find a place at third base. Cabrera was a contender to play the super utility role for the Bronx Bombers. Now, there is a problem that Cabrera is not as dependable offensively as LeMahieu. Moreover, the Yankees were planning to use Cabrera as insurance at third base, first base, and shortstop. With Cabrera at third base, the NY side won’t have “A Legitimate backup” for those three positions. After the Yankees wrapped up the two-game series in Mexico, Aaron Boone mentioned, “We’ve two more spots to fill. We still need to do the final iteration. Anyway, we will see.”
Aaron Boone Talked About Two Possible Backups
For the Opening Day, the NY side brought Ben Rortvedt and Jahmai Jones to Houston. However, there is no guarantee they will be on the roster against the Houston Astros on Thursday. Anyway, the Yankees skipper seemed confident about Jahmai Jones at left field and second base.
The NY side can even play him at third base if the situation demands it. But that’s not an optimal plan. Meanwhile, Ben Rortvedt would be a backup for Jose Trevino and Austin Wells as the team’s third catcher. However, if things don’t fit, then the Bronx Bombers can even look to sign a new player who is available in the market.
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