Products You May Like
The Yankees are hoping they find their starting third baseman this spring.
With a few candidates already on the roster, but none that have stood out recently, the team has said they could use a platoon at that position but would rather not. Both manager Aaron Boone and general manager Brian Cashman have named four potential starting third basemen before spring training began: DJ LeMahieu, Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswald Peraza and Jorbit Vivas.
With the first week of spring training in the books, here’s how each candidate performed in the games from Feb. 21-28…
DJ LeMahieu
The veteran infielder has yet to appear in a spring training game. Boone said that LeMahieu will see his first in-game action either Saturday or Monday night.
It’s not uncommon for veterans not to see game action until later in the spring. The Yankees did this with Austin Wells and Aaron Judge, so it’s not a red flag. But after a 2024 campaign where he slashed .204/.269/.259 with a .527 OPS, LeMahieu and the Yankees are hoping for a bounceback year.
Oswaldo Cabrera
Feb. 22 vs. Blue Jays: 0-for-3
Feb. 25 vs. Twins: 0-for-3
Feb. 27 vs. Phillies: 1-for-3, HR
Feb. 28 vs. Blue Jays: 1-for-3
Cabrera seemingly has the inside track to make the Opening Day roster. His versatility and major league experience make him a safe bet, but he has gotten off to a slow start at the plate. After going hitless in his first two spring games, Cabrera went yard and finished off the first week of games with a two-game hitting streak.
He’s also played solid-to-good defense at third base, which is important for this Yankees team.
Oswald Peraza
Feb. 21 vs. Rays: 1-for-2, BB, R
Feb. 23 vs. Tigers: 0-for-2
Feb. 26 vs. Cardinals: 1-for-2, R
Feb. 28 vs. Blue Jays: 1-for-3, RBI, R
The once-touted infield prospect has been hampered by injuries and poor performance on the big league level. This spring is make-or-break for the 24-year-old who is out of minor league options.
So far, Peraza has shown great defense at third and shortstop. His bat-to-ball skills have seemingly improved, as he has not struck out in his first four games. Peraza has not been able to show off his stolen base potential just yet, but his speed has allowed him to beat out potential double plays and score easily from second base after hits.
Jorbit Vivas
The young infielder has yet to make his debut this spring due to shoulder soreness, per Boone. The Yankees skipper added that Vivas is close to playing again.
It’s a tough start for Vivas, who, after turning heads last spring, will need to do so again when he gets back.