Stroman Struggles in Latest Spring Training Start
Marcus Stroman’s second start of spring training was far from ideal, as the Yankees faced an 11-1 defeat to the Atlanta Braves on Sunday at CoolToday Park in Venice, Fla. Stroman, who was once a no-show and has been vocal about his reluctance to pitch in the bullpen, had a rough outing. He allowed four runs on four hits, including back-to-back homers with two outs in the first inning. Stroman threw 28 strikes out of 43 pitches, managing one strikeout but also hitting a batter. This performance has not bolstered his case for a rotation spot, especially with the uncertainty surrounding starting pitcher Luis Gil, who underwent an MRI on his right shoulder the previous day.
Austin Wells Continues Impressive Start
Austin Wells has been a bright spot for the Yankees this spring. He has recorded at least one hit in each of his first three spring training games. On Sunday, Wells returned to the lineup for the first time since Friday’s 6-3 win over the Blue Jays and led off the game with a single up the middle. Despite striking out swinging in the third and fifth innings, Wells has already showcased his offensive prowess with a single, a double, and a home run in just seven at-bats since his debut last Wednesday. His consistent performance is a promising sign for the Yankees as they look to solidify their lineup.
Dominguez Shows Defensive Improvement
Jasson Dominguez, a highly touted prospect, had another hitless day, going 0-for-3. However, he took a significant step forward defensively. In the second inning, with one out and a runner on second base, Jarred Kelenic hit a deep fly ball to the warning track in left field. Dominguez made the play without any issues, helping to keep the inning scoreless. This defensive effort is a positive development for Dominguez, who had a rough start when he lost a ball in the sun during last Sunday’s 4-0 loss to the Detroit Tigers. The Yankees need Dominguez to figure out left field, and it appears he may be turning a corner.
Peraza’s Continued Push for a Roster Spot
Oswald Peraza’s bid to make the opening day roster continued with a 1-for-3 day from the ninth spot while starting at third base. Peraza, who also walked, recorded a single up the middle in the second inning. However, the inning ended on a play where Pablo Reyes was thrown out at third base while attempting to advance from first. This negated a would-be RBI single for Peraza, as Oswaldo Cabrera, who was going from second to home plate, did not score. Despite the setback, Peraza’s consistent performance and defensive versatility make him a strong candidate for the Yankees’ roster.
Austin Riley Shines for the Braves
Austin Riley was the standout performer for the Braves, going 2-for-3 from the third spot in the lineup. His home run in the first inning not only put the Braves on the board but also set the tone for the game. Riley added an RBI double off Stroman with one out in the second inning, pushing Atlanta’s lead to 3-0. His strong showing was instrumental in the Braves’ dominant win, solidifying his position as one of the team’s key players.
What’s Next for the Yankees
The Yankees will return to George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Fla., for Monday’s 6:35 p.m. game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Max Fried is set to start for New York, making his spring debut after signing an eight-year, $218 million contract in December. Fried’s performance will be closely watched as he is the Yankees’ marquee offseason addition and a key component of their pitching staff. This game will provide a crucial opportunity for the Yankees to bounce back and for Fried to showcase his value to the team.
