The 2023 MLB season opening day is just three weeks from now, and the New York Yankees are piling up a starting lineup.
The New York Yankees are in desperate need of a World Series title. They have not brought the trophy home in New York despite six consecutive deep postseason runs. However, this season, the bullpen looks stronger than ever on paper. Moreover, the strength is on full display at the ongoing spring training league.
Meanwhile, the Yankees fielded a settled lineup on Wednesday against the Nationals. Further, Michael Kay confirmed that this lineup could very well be the regular season opening lineup with just one change. However, the question arises if this below-mentioned lineup carries to the opening day, what about the future of other top-performing players?
Yankees probable opening day roster:
Offensive Players: Anthony Rizzo, Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Harrison Bader, Aaron Hicks, Josh Donaldson, Jose Trevino, Kyle Higashioka
Pitchers : Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Luis Severino, Nestor Cortes Jr., Domingo German, Clay Holmes, Michael King, Tommy Kahnle, Jonathan Loáisiga, Ron Marinaccio, Wandy Peralta, Lou Trivino
Who Fills In The Remaining Six Spots On The Yankees Final Roster?
Oswaldo Cabrera is likely to lose his left-field spot to Aaron Hicks. However, the Yankees’ management is looking to use him as a utility player. Hence, he could be on the 26-man roster. On the other hand, Oswald Peraza is likely to be sent back to the minor league if he fails to win the starting shortstop position. Still, the Yanks could keep him in the mix, considering the amount of backing he’s receiving.
Both players are reportedly up for grabs in the trade window. Moreover, with Dodgers’ shortstop getting injured, Isiah has been linked to trade on multiple occasions. However, due to their high contract value, none of them are likely to leave the Yankees camp, at least till the commencement of the opening day. Hence, both players could feature in the final roster.
Estevan Florial is getting ample amount of chances in the ongoing spring training to make a difference. Furthermore, it’s the last chance for Florial to find a place on the final roster, or else his baseball career is in jeopardy. On the other hand, Clarke Schmidt is likely to lose the fifth starter spot to Domingo German. Hence, he could be on the roster as Nestor Cortes is reeling under injury.
With the pitching lineup reeling under injury concerns, Greg Weissert could earn a place on the final roster as the Yankees could increase the depth further. Moreover, Jimmy and Matt have put up impressive numbers in spring training so far. So either of them can earn a spot on the remaining six spots.
Overall, the New York Yankees have three weeks to determine their final 26-man roster for the opening day. They have healthy headaches in a few areas. However, the main concern remains the persistent injuries that are hampering the Yanks’ plan every single day.