Yankees’ Spring Training Start: A Mixed Bag of Results
The New York Yankees faced their first challenge of the 2023 Grapefruit League exhibition season, ultimately falling to the Toronto Blue Jays by a score of 6-4. Despite a spirited comeback, the Yankees couldn’t overcome an early deficit and a crucial eighth-inning lapse. Here’s a closer look at the key takeaways from the game.
Carlos Rodon’s Rough Debut
Carlos Rodon, the Yankees’ star left-hander, had a less-than-ideal start to his spring training. In just 2.2 innings, he surrendered three earned runs on five hits, along with a walk and a strikeout. The first run came after Andres Gimenez, one of the Blue Jays’ new faces, hit a one-out single and stole second, only to score on a single by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to right field. The second run crossed the plate due to a wild pitch in the second inning, and Rodon gave up his third run in the third on a two-out single by Alejandro Kirk. While it’s early in the season and Rodon is still finding his rhythm, this performance highlights the challenges he might face as he prepares for the regular season.
Spencer Jones Raises Eyebrows
Yankees top prospect Spencer Jones made his presence felt in the top of the sixth inning with a two-run home run, cutting Toronto’s lead to 4-2. Jones finished 1-for-2 at the plate, with a walk and a strikeout. His performance in 2022 with the Double-A Somerset Patriots was notable, boasting a .259 batting average, 17 home runs, 30 doubles, six triples, and 78 RBIs over 122 games. Jones’ power and potential make him a player to watch as the Yankees continue to develop their young talent.
Leibrandt and Cohen’s Relief Efforts
After Rodon’s struggles, 25-year-old Harrison Cohen and 32-year-old Brandon Leibrandt took over the mound. Cohen, who allowed just one hit in a brief 0.1 innings, was followed by Leibrandt, who pitched three innings and gave up a solo home run to Orelvis Martinez in the bottom of the fourth. Leibrandt’s last stint in the majors was with the Cincinnati Reds in 2024, where he posted a 4.41 ERA over 17 starts in Triple-A Louisville. The duo’s efforts provided some stabilizing moments in a game that could have spiraled out of control.
Munguia’s Contribution
Ismael Munguia, a 26-year-old who signed a minor league deal with the Yankees in December, had a productive at-bat in the top of the sixth inning. Munguia drove in George Lombard Jr. with a triple to right field, showing off his speed and bat control. However, the inning ended with Braden Shewmake grounding out to first, leaving Munguia stranded at third base. Munguia’s performance in 2022, hitting .254 with four home runs, seven doubles, and five triples over 73 games in Double-A, indicates that he could be a valuable addition to the Yankees’ farm system.
Alexander Vargas’ Game-Tying Homer
Alexander Vargas, a 23-year-old infielder, provided a moment of hope for the Yankees in the top of the eighth inning with a game-tying solo home run. Vargas’ power at the plate was a bright spot in a game where the Yankees struggled to find consistent offense. His performance in the minors last season, with a .254 batting average, four home runs, seven doubles, and five triples over 73 games in Double-A, suggests that he has the potential to develop into a solid hitter.
Pereira and Brewer’s Mixed Fortunes
Everson Pereira, who started as the designated hitter, had a productive outing, going 1-for-1 with a run scored, a walk, and being hit by a pitch. Pereira’s 2022 season was cut short due to season-ending elbow surgery in June, but his MLB debut in 2023 showed promise as he recorded 14 hits in 93 at-bats over 27 games. His return to the lineup is a positive sign for the Yankees.
On the other side, Colten Brewer, who signed a minor league contract in December, found himself in a tricky situation in the bottom of the eighth inning. Riley Tirotta reached first on a throwing error from third baseman Andrew Velazquez and then stole second base. Brewer allowed an RBI double to Steward Berroa and threw a wild pitch that allowed Berroa to score from third, sealing the Yankees’ 6-4 loss. While Brewer’s performance was a setback, the game offered valuable insights into the adjustments needed for the upcoming season.
Upcoming Schedule
The Yankees return to their home turf on Sunday for a matchup against the Detroit Tigers at 1:05 p.m. Non-roster invitee Sean Boyle is expected to start, facing off against former No. 1 overall pick Casey Mize. This game will provide another opportunity for players to showcase their skills and for the coaching staff to gauge their readiness for the regular season. Fans can expect more exciting moments and insights as the team continues its spring training journey.
