The Quest for a Starting Third Baseman
The New York Yankees find themselves in a bit of a quandary as they embark on their quest for a reliable starting third baseman. With a few candidates already on the roster, none have distinctly risen to the top in recent performances. The team has mentioned the possibility of a platoon at the position but would prefer to avoid it if they can secure a single standout player. Both manager Aaron Boone and general manager Brian Cashman have outlined four potential starters before spring training began: DJ LeMahieu, Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswald Peraza, and Jorbit Vivas. As the first week of spring training wraps up, here’s a closer look at how each candidate has performed from February 21-28.
DJ LeMahieu: A Veteran’s Patience
DJ LeMahieu, the veteran infielder, has not yet taken the field in a spring training game. Boone has indicated that LeMahieu will likely see his first in-game action either on Saturday or Monday night. It’s not unusual for seasoned players to wait until later in the spring to start game action, as the Yankees did with Austin Wells and Aaron Judge in previous years. This approach is not a cause for concern, but it’s worth noting that LeMahieu had a challenging 2024 season, batting just .204 with a .269 OBP and a .259 SLG, resulting in a .527 OPS. Both LeMahieu and the Yankees are hoping for a significant bounce-back year from the veteran.
Oswaldo Cabrera: Versatility and Potential
Oswaldo Cabrera has quickly become one of the frontrunners for the starting third baseman spot, largely due to his versatility and major league experience. Despite a slow start at the plate, Cabrera has shown promise. In his first two spring games, he went hitless, but he broke out with a home run on February 27 against the Phillies and maintained his momentum with a solid performance the following day against the Blue Jays. Cabrera’s two-game hitting streak and his consistent, solid defense at third base are crucial for a team that values all-around contributions. The Yankees are hopeful that Cabrera’s bat will heat up, solidifying his position on the Opening Day roster.
Oswald Peraza: A Make-or-Break Season
For Oswald Peraza, this spring could be a pivotal moment in his career. The 24-year-old infield prospect has faced significant challenges, including injuries and underwhelming big league performance. With no minor league options left, this spring is essentially a do-or-die situation for him. So far, Peraza has shown significant improvement in his bat-to-ball skills, going four games without a strikeout. His defensive capabilities at both third base and shortstop have been commendable, and he has already contributed with a run and an RBI. While he hasn’t gotten the chance to showcase his stolen base potential, his speed has allowed him to beat out potential double plays and score easily from second base after hits. Peraza’s efforts will be closely watched, and the Yankees are hoping he can capitalize on this opportunity.
Jorbit Vivas: A Setback but Not Out
Jorbit Vivas, the young infielder, has yet to make his spring training debut due to shoulder soreness, according to Boone. The manager has assured that Vivas is close to returning to play. Last spring, Vivas turned heads with his performance, and the Yankees will be keen to see if he can replicate or even surpass that level of play when he returns. The setback is challenging, but the team remains optimistic about Vivas’s potential. His absence thus far will only add to the pressure on the other candidates to step up and secure their positions.
The Importance of a Strong Start
The Yankees are well aware that the first few weeks of spring training can set the tone for the entire season. Each of the candidates for the starting third baseman position has their strengths and areas that need improvement. DJ LeMahieu brings veteran leadership and a track record of success, despite a rough 2024 season. Oswaldo Cabrera offers versatility and potential, while Oswald Peraza brings defensive prowess and a chance to redeem himself. Jorbit Vivas, though currently sidelined, has shown promise that the Yankees are eager to see materialize. As the spring progresses, the team will be closely monitoring each player’s performance to make the best decision for the roster.
Looking Ahead
As the Yankees continue their spring training journey, the competition for the starting third baseman position will only intensify. The team’s preference for a single standout player rather than a platoon underscores the importance of each candidate making a strong case for themselves. Whether it’s LeMahieu’s experience, Cabrera’s versatility, Peraza’s defense, or Vivas’s potential, the Yankees are hoping to find the right fit to bolster their infield and set a strong foundation for the upcoming season. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining who steps up to the plate and becomes the face of the Yankees’ third base.
