A few New York Yankees players have arrived early at the club’s Tampa base for spring training participation.
The New York Yankees, one of the most celebrated sports franchises in the world, has been awaiting a World Series title for 13 years. Despite making it to the postseason every single year, the team somehow fails to cross the finish line. Speaking of last season, the Yankees made it to the ALCS only to get knocked out by Houston Astros. The Yanks made a mess in the ALCS despite dominating the entire season.
After the ALCS humiliation, the Yankees front office made a promise to the fans to build a stronger bullpen for the 2023 MLB season. And to fulfill the promise, the front office entered the off-season with a killer instinct. They nearly spent more than $500 million on just four players and more on other arbitration eligible players. Now that we are all done with the season, it’s time to put the bullpen to the test.
Four Yankees Players Report Early For Spring Training
The off-season is coming to an end, and spring training will begin in two weeks. For the Yankees, they have their first game on 25th February against the Phillies. Hence, as many as 69 invites are sent to the players associated with the Yankees organization to take part in the spring training. While the pitcher and catchers are called in on 16th February, the rest of the bullpen is likely to join at a later date.
However, a few players have arrived early in Florida. According to MLB insider Bryan Hoch, a set of players were seen arriving at the Yankees’ Tampa base camp in Florida. The group includes Yanks captain Aaron Judge along with Gleyber Torres, DJ LeMahieu, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and Yanks skipper Aaron Boone. Moreover, Judge did some hitting practice while DJ focused on a core workout at third base. Isiah, on the other hand, did some infield practice to get back his rhythm.
Isiah Kiner-Falefa Tagged Along A Special Guest To Spring Training
While the New York Yankees set a reporting date after 16th February for the spring training, certain players decided to mark an early presence. The group comprises Aaron Judge, DJ Lemahieu, Gleyber Torres, and Isiah Kiner-Falefa. However, Isiah caught attention as he was seen arriving at the Tampa base with a special guest. The shortstop brought in his dog, Bella, along with him at the spring training. Bella is a mini Goldendoodle who peeped out of the car window as Isiah made his way to the camp.
Isiah is the man fighting for survival this season. He faces intense competition at the shortstop position. Moreover, a poor 2022 season is working against his favor. On the other hand, a few rumors state the Yanks are looking out for trade options for Isiah. Hence, the shortstop’s association with New York could be short-lived. Nonetheless, he has this upcoming spring training to prove himself and make his place on the starting roster.
