New York Yankees’ baseman, Gleyber Torres, arrives early for spring training ahead of World Baseball Classic 2023.
Gleyber Torres faced arbitration this off-season after failing to arrive at a mutual agreement with the Yankees for an extended contract. Later, Torres gave in and signed a $9.95 million contract ahead of the arbitration hearing. However, the drama does not seem to end anytime soon, as Torres has been surrounded by constant trade rumors despite signing an extension contract.
In 2022, Gleyber Torres had to play second base after the arrival of Isiah Kiner Falefa. He batted .257/.310/.451 in 526 at-bats, scoring 24 home runs and 76 RBIs. However, the numbers proved to be unsatisfactory as the Yanks failed to move past Astros in the ALCS. Hence, rumors surrounding Torres’ trade surfaced. While the 26-year-old might start the season as a Yankee, how long he can drag the stay remains to be seen.
Gleyber Torres Wants To Continue With Yankees Till The End Of His Career
Ahead of WBC 2023 participation, Gleyber Torres arrived at New York Yankees base camp in Tampa, Florida, for practice. Being the only non-catcher and pitcher, Torres did a few hits along with Aaron Judge. In a recent interview, Torres expressed his profound love for the New York Yankees and called it his home. He said he never wishes to leave the club and wants to continue, possibly till the end of his career. However, the baseman acknowledged the fact that baseball is a business and the future could never be predicted.
Furthermore, speaking to Marly Rivera of ESPN, Gleyber Torres said he quit social media ever since rumors related to his trade started surfacing. Torres wants to successfully complete the current two-year contract of no more and intends to shut out the outside noise. Moreover, the baseman’s main focus this season is to put up good numbers to extend his stay within the team and cut through the rising competition. Lastly, Torres says he wants to help the Yankees in the World Series title.
“I’ll be here to compete,” said Gleyber Torres.
Aaron Boone Confirms Gleyber’s Spot In The Starting Roster
While the trade rumors float, New York Yankees skipper, Aaron Boone, confirmed Gleyber Torres’ spot on the starting roster. Torres, who will participate in the WBC 2023 this year, will join the Bombers’ camp post the world tournament. Aaron Boone showed faith in Torres and said he sees the 26-year-old as a second baseman on a regular basis. This surely will boss Gleyber’s confidence.
Despite Boone’s statement, Gleyber Torres should not get too comfortable. The competition within the bullpen is something that cannot be overlooked. The Yankees have a whole farm fighting for the starting shortstop spot. Meanwhile, Anthony Rizzo will most likely keep his position at first base. On top of that, the Yankees have 69 players set to join spring training starting today. The catchers and pitcher will report today, and the rest will join later. Hence, no position is secure for any player as of now.
