Max Fried Shines in Yankees Spring Training Debut
Max Fried’s spring training debut with the Yankees was nothing short of impressive, as Manager Aaron Boone highlighted to the YES Network. Fried, who has not pitched in live action since Game 2 of the NL Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres on October 2, looked sharp and in control. "Stuff was good — a little hot with the heater," Boone remarked. "He was up to 97 mph with the fastball, but it had good movement, and he executed a lot of different pitches." Fried managed to keep the Pirates scoreless for the first two innings, striking out two batters, walking one, and allowing just two hits. His performance set a positive tone for the day, and although Ryan Anderson allowed a home run to Joey Bart in the third inning, charging two earned runs to Fried, the left-hander’s healthy return and command were key takeaways. Fried himself emphasized the importance of staying healthy and getting back into the competitive rhythm, stating, "Getting through healthy, that’s the most important thing, just being able to check the box, get back out there, kind of get the swing of the game, get the competitive juices going and coming out healthy."
Cody Bellinger and Anthony Volpe Show Promise
Cody Bellinger and Anthony Volpe, batting third and fourth respectively, provided early sparks for the Yankees. Volpe’s leadoff single in the second inning set the stage for him to score the game’s first run. He added another knock in the fifth inning, a line drive through the left side, which brought home two runs and extended the Yankees’ lead to 6-3. This performance marked Volpe’s first two-hit game of the spring, and it comes at a crucial time as he enters his third season as the Yankees’ shortstop. Volpe, who struggled to a 0-for-7 start over the first three games, has shown significant improvement in recent outings, much to the delight of the Yankees. Bellinger, fresh off his trade from the Chicago Cubs in December, had a stellar day as well. He singled on a ground ball to shortstop in the fourth inning, driving in Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Jackson Castillo, and also recorded a third-inning single to left field. Bellinger’s 7-for-13 start through six games is a promising sign for New York, indicating that his bat is well-suited for the Yankees’ lineup.
Dominic Smith’s Strong Case for the Roster
Dominic Smith, a former Mets star (2017-22) who has bounced between several teams since 2023, is making a strong case for a return to New York, this time with the Yankees. Batted as the designated hitter, a role that is particularly crucial with Giancarlo Stanton starting the season on the injured list, Smith had a 2-for-4 day featuring a pair of two-run singles. His first single put the Yankees on the board early, and the second one effectively sealed the game in the late innings. Smith has been a standout in spring training, racking up seven RBI through five games. He even homered in consecutive days last week, showing both power and consistency. Boone acknowledged Smith’s strong performance, stating, "Dom Smith has come in here and looked strong. We love what we’re seeing from him." Smith’s efforts are putting him in the mix for a role on the roster, whether it be as a designated hitter or a utility player.
Manager Boone Weighs His Options for Designated Hitter
With Giancarlo Stanton beginning the season on the injured list, the designated hitter role is up for grabs, and Boone is keeping his options open. "We’ll see," Boone told the YES Network. "It could be a shared situation or a left-right situation. We certainly love what we’re seeing from Ben Rice. If we end up with a three-catcher setup, he can factor into the DH role. Dominic Smith has come in here and looked strong. Everson Pereira, who is back from injury, can also contribute. We have Pablo Reyes, who has had success in the big leagues, and J.C. Escarra, who factors into the catching mix but can also play the designated hitter role." Boone’s comments indicate that the Yankees are looking for the best combination of players to fill the void left by Stanton’s absence. Smith’s consistent performance, along with other contenders, will be closely monitored as spring training progresses.
The MVP of the Day: Dominic Smith
Dominic Smith stole the show with his four RBI, breaking the game open for the Yankees. His timely hitting and solid performance at the plate were crucial in securing the 12-3 victory over the Pirates. Smith’s ability to drive in runs and his overall bat presence make him a strong candidate for the designated hitter role or a backup position. His recent form, highlighted by consecutive home runs and a high RBI count, suggests that he is ready to contribute significantly if given the opportunity. The Yankees’ front office will undoubtedly be paying close attention to Smith’s performance as they finalize their roster for the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead: Yankees Face the Phillies
The Yankees will continue their spring training schedule with a visit to BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Florida, on Tuesday, where they will face the Philadelphia Phillies at 1:05 p.m. Right-handed pitcher Will Warren, who has been outstanding this spring, is set to start for New York. Warren has allowed just one hit while striking out seven and walking one in five scoreless innings over two appearances, including one start. This match-up against the Phillies will be another opportunity for the Yankees to evaluate their players and build momentum as they prepare for the regular season. The team’s strong start, marked by solid performances from key players like Fried, Bellinger, Volpe, and Smith, sets a positive tone for the remainder of spring training.
