The New York Yankees have been through a lot since last season. It was terrible as they could not make the postseason. For the first time since 2016, the Bronx Bombers have failed to make the playoffs. Moreover, they finished fourth in the American League East division with an awful 82-80 record. On top of that, the 27-time champions suffered a lot because of their long Injured List. Several veteran and young players were on the IL last year. That was a massive blow for the Pinstripes. Hence, the fans will hope the 2024 season will be different.
Moreover, the front office made a lot of changes in the offseason. After signing Juan Soto for a one-year deal, the team looks good from their offensive side. Moreover, the Yankees have one of the most improved outfields in the league in terms of WAR. Now, they can very well see themselves as a contender for the World Series. But the spring training has not been very productive so far for the NY Yankees. Moreover, there is still a question mark on the infielders in the Bronx Bombers. None of them stood out so far in the spring training.
Yankees Are Not Happy With Their Infield Depth
Kevin Smith is a non-roster invitee for the Yankees this spring. Recently, in an interview with NJ Advance Media, Smith mentioned he does not look too far into the future thinking about playing for the Yankees in a regular season game. But he is sure if he gets the chance to don the iconic “Pinstripe uniform,” he’ll be very emotional. However, in the spring training so far, Smith hit .188 with a walk and six strikeouts. But it is not just Smith. None of the reserve infielders has really stood out. Only three weeks remain before the team reaches the Opening Day.
Lately, the one favorite to make it as the utility infielder in the Yankees rotation, Oswald Peraza, faced a major injury scare. On Thursday, Peraza’s shoulder injury resurfaced. Previously, he had to sit out for a week during the Grapefruit League games because of discomfort. That same issue is back for the top prospect. On Thursday, the top prospect went for a scan, and based on the results, he may also have to miss more game time. Anyway, the chances of Peraza starting for the Yankees are not good. He may have to play in Triple-A even if he is healthy.
Aaron Boone Will Have A Tough Time To Choose From The Infield Depth
The statistics in the spring training might not count, but none of the infielders on the NY side performed well during the Grapefruit League games. Peraza hurt himself and sees his name on the Injured List again. On the other hand, Oswaldo Cabrera, Jeter Downs, and Jorbit Vivas did not really impress in the spring.
Later, Aaron Boone mentioned the process of choosing the right guy for the roster spot is more complicated than just comparing the spring training productions. A lot of things play an essential role, like work ethic behind the scenes, effectiveness in the field, the quality of at-bats, and so on. Perhaps the Yankees will choose some from the external assets to fill in the open spot for an infielder.
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