Spring Training Challenges for the Yankees
Spring training has not been kind to the New York Yankees this year. Injuries to key players have left the team scrambling for answers and adjustments. Giancarlo Stanton, one of the team’s sluggers, arrived at camp with tennis elbow in both arms and is now set to start the season on the injured list (IL). DJ LeMahieu, another crucial player, left his spring debut after just two at-bats, raising even more question marks at third base. The rotation, usually a position of strength for the Yankees, will also be without AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil to start the season. These setbacks have forced manager Aaron Boone and general manager Brian Cashman to look closely at who is in camp, providing intriguing possibilities for some of the younger players and non-roster invitees.
Projected Starting Lineup
Here is a predicted 26-man roster for the Yankees’ Opening Day in the 2025 season:
- Leadoff/Catcher: Austin Wells
- First Base: Paul Goldschmidt
- Second Base: Jazz Chisholm Jr.
- Shortstop: Anthony Volpe
- Third Base: Oswaldo Cabrera
- Left Field: Jasson Dominguez
- Right Field: Aaron Judge
- Center Field: Cody Bellinger
- Designated Hitter: Everson Pereira
While this lineup isn’t set in stone—Wells is likely to bat leadoff—familiar faces like Judge, Volpe, and the new acquisitions, Bellinger and Goldschmidt, will anchor the starting nine. The most significant question mark remains at the designated hitter (DH) position, with Pereira likely getting the nod due to Stanton’s IL placement. Pereira has shown a solid spring performance, making him a strong candidate for the role. Additionally, his right-handed bat would provide a valuable bench option in pinch-hit situations.
Third Base Conundrum
Despite DJ LeMahieu not being placed on the IL yet, his status for Opening Day remains uncertain. Given the club’s need for stability at third base, Oswaldo Cabrera is the safest bet to start the year there. Cabrera has the experience and versatility to play multiple positions, making him a valuable asset. However, there’s a chance that Oswald Peraza, another capable prospect, could win the starting job out of spring training. Peraza’s development and potential make him a compelling option, but Cabrera’s switch-hitting ability and defensive flexibility might give him the edge.
Rotation Adjustments
The Yankees’ starting rotation, despite its usual strength, has faced a significant setback with Luis Gil’s injury. The projected rotation for Opening Day is:
- Gerrit Cole (RHP)
- Max Fried (LHP)
- Carlos Rodon (LHP)
- Clarke Schmidt (RHP)
- Marcus Stroman (RHP)
Stroman’s presence is noteworthy, as he was a trade candidate even before camp started. However, with Gil’s injury and the Yankees’ immediate need for a reliable starter, Stroman is likely to remain in the rotation. Stroman has a vesting option for the 2026 season, which could influence his long-term role. If he pitches 140 innings in 2025, the option will vest, potentially affecting his future with the team.
Bullpen Dynamics
The Yankees’ bullpen has faced its own set of challenges this spring, with Jake Cousins, JT Brubaker, and Scott Effross suffering injuries that will likely keep them off the Opening Day roster. Despite these setbacks, there have been some impressive performances from other relievers. The predicted bullpen includes:
- Devin Williams (RHP)
- Yerry De Los Santos (RHP)
- Mark Leiter Jr. (RHP)
- Ian Hamilton (RHP)
- Tyler Matzek (LHP)
- Tim Hill (LHP)
- Luke Weaver (RHP)
- Yoendrys Gomez (RHP)
De Los Santos and Gomez have shown great promise and are already on the 40-man roster, making them strong candidates for the final roster. Tyler Matzek, a 34-year-old veteran, is an intriguing addition, though the Yankees don’t typically carry two left-handed relievers. His experience and impressive spring performance, however, make him a viable option. If one of the injured relievers is placed on the 60-day IL, Matzek could be added to the roster.
Bench Depth
The bench will be crucial for the Yankees, especially with the injuries to key players. The projected bench includes:
- Trent Grisham (OF)
- Ben Rice (1B/C)
- Alex Jackson (C)
- Oswald Peraza (INF)
Peraza, who has no more minor league options, is likely to make the Opening Day roster. The Yankees would risk losing him if he were sent down, making now an ideal time to see what he can bring to the table. As for the backup catcher’s spot, Alex Jackson, acquired from the Reds in the Jose Trevino trade, has major league experience and offers a right-handed bat to complement Wells. Jackson is not on the 40-man roster, so the Yankees will need to make room for him. Ben Rice, a left-handed DH, will provide depth at first base and serve as an emergency third catcher. His presence on the 40-man roster bodes well for his chances of making the team.
Conclusion
The Yankees are facing a challenging start to the 2025 season, with injuries to key players creating a need for flexibility and depth. Despite these setbacks, the team has a wealth of talent in camp, providing interesting possibilities for some of the younger players and non-roster invitees. With the right adjustments and strategic moves, the Yankees can still field a competitive and formidable lineup, ready to contend for a championship.
