New York Yankees are shaken by frequent injury concerns just a few weeks before the start of the 2023 MLB season opening day.
The Yankees are facing some early season outfield problems ahead of the 2023 MLB season opening day. Injuries and uncertainty in the outfield have left the team with some tough decisions to make as they look to start the season on a positive note. Along with the outfield, the team also has to deal with the pitching rotation, which has collapsed under injury concerns.
One of the biggest concerns for the Yankees is the health of Harrison Bader. The outfielder has been dealing with an oblique injury and is unlikely to be ready for opening day. Bader is a key player for the Yankees, providing solid defense and a reliable bat in the lineup. His absence leaves a significant void in the outfield and puts pressure on the team to find a suitable replacement.
Yankees Looking For Replacements For Harrison Bader In The Center Field
New York Yankees regular center fielder, Harrison Bader, suffered an oblique injury last week, which has ruled him out for six weeks of any baseball-related activities. Bader, who arrived last season via trade, became a regular roster member in the outfield. Hence, his services will be badly missed in the center. Moreover, oblique injuries are tricky to manage. Thus, no timetable is set for his return just yet. Now, it’s time for the Bombers’ front office to look out for long-term replacements.
The two obvious names coming forward are Aaron Judge and Oswaldo Cabrera. The best bet would be Judge at the center field, as he played most of the 2022 season at the center before Harrison Bader eventually came in. Cabrera, on the other hand, is likely to lose the left-field battle to Aaron Hicks. Hence, he could find a place on the right. On top of that, a top prospect, Jasson Dominguez, is also making a strong case for himself with powerful hits at the plate. Hence, he could, too, feature in the outfield at some point in the season. Overall, Aaron Judge is the most sought-after replacement for Harrison Bader in the long run.
Baseman Anthony Rizzo Dealing With A Stiff Back
Meanwhile, injury concerns continue to pile up in the New York Yankees camp. The team’s first baseman, Anthony Rizzo, missed out on the last couple of away games due to a stiff back. Rizzo’s niggle in the back troubled him multiple times last season. However, both the skipper and Rizzo himself have confirmed no severe damage. Further, Anthony is likely to return for the home games very soon.
Speaking on the injury, Anthony Rizzo said that back is always going to be an issue moving forward. It’s something he has to live with for the rest of his life. The key for Rizzo here is to manage his workload and rest his back as much as possible. Moreover, the baseman said pushing it hard in spring training makes no sense. Hence, he will limit his game time in the Grapefruit League and will likely feature on the opening day.