The New York Yankees 51-26 record reflects on the lineup’s formidable firepower. However, there is more to it that it meets the eye. While the top order featuring Aaron Judge, Juan Soto and Giancarlo Stanton has been excellent, the lower order is lacking the standards the franchise demands.
Additionally, a couple of injury concerns have left viable gaps in the infield. Hence, while the New York Yankees are cruising in major leagues, the gaps in the lineup will begin to hurt the team in the latter half of the year. On that note, let’s explore three such glaring holes the front office needs to address as soon as possible.
1. Inconsistent Infield
The New York Yankees infield, except for leadoff hitter Anthony Volpe, has been inconsistent in the field as well as on the plate. DJ LeMahieu, Gleyber Torres and recently injured Anthony Rizzo have accounted for questionable errors in the field. Torres alone is responsible for 11 errors whereas Rizzo and DJ have also lacked the necessary game awareness. Moreover, with Rizzo injured, the team has called up prospect Ben Rice from minor league. However, the team will require external solutions for the sake of the long-term future. With the trade deadline approaching, a veteran infielder, preferably a first baseman, would be extremely important for the Yanks lineup.
2. Lack Of Firepower In Lower Order
Any team is as good as it’s hitting the lineup. With Juan Soto’s addition, the New York Yankees have gained the spark in the offence. However, while the top order is thriving, the lower order featuring Austin Wells, DJ LeMahieu, Gleyber Torres and Anthony Rizzo have had questionable slumps. Torres’ .628 OPS is by far the worst of his entire career. DJ has just come off a prolonged injury layoff and is still searching for his groove. After a sensational September debut in 2023, Wells is still adjusting to the major league challenges. Rizzo, meanwhile, picked up an arm fracture after his OPS fell below .500. Hence, the gaps in lower order need to be addressed so that Yanks can hit the barrel.
3. Yankees Must Sort Trade Options
The only solution for these lineup gaps is to seek external help. With the trade deadline approaching, the New York Yankees can go after the likes of Pete Alonso, Paul Goldschmidt or even Josh Bell, for that matter. Alonso is the best yet high-risk option. He is an impending free agent, likely to sign an extension contract with the Mets in 2025 free agency. However, the star first baseman could be made available for half a year, which is still worth it if the front office is able to negotiate a good swap deal. Josh Bell, meanwhile, is a low-risk and affordable candidate to fix the infield. Besides, the Yanks can also opt for formidable lower-order hitters who are likely infielders with experience in second and third base.
Overall, these lineup gaps seem a small issue not. But could lead to disaster in the second half of the tournament. Hence, the Yankees must not ignore the signs of cracks and look for solutions on immediate basis.
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