Yankees Could Give This Versatile Infielder A Look In The Bronx In 2024
With just a few weeks until the start of spring training, the New York Yankees are still looking for a utility infielder to fill out their bench.
A Look at the Candidates
One of the players who could be in the mix is Dermis Garcia. The 25-year-old is a switch-hitter who can play all four infield positions. He has spent the past four seasons in the minor leagues, where he has a .284 batting average and a .773 OPS.
Garcia was added to the Yankees’ 40-man roster in November, which means he is eligible to play in the majors this season. He is expected to compete for a spot on the team’s bench this spring.
Another player who could be in the running for a utility infielder role is Thairo Estrada. The 26-year-old is another switch-hitter who can play all four infield positions. He has spent the past two seasons with the San Francisco Giants, where he has a .263 batting average and a .728 OPS.
Estrada was claimed by the Yankees off waivers in December. He is expected to compete for a spot on the team’s bench this spring.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Garcia and Estrada
Both Garcia and Estrada have their strengths and weaknesses. Garcia is a better hitter than Estrada, but Estrada is a better fielder than Garcia.
Garcia has a career .284 batting average in the minor leagues, while Estrada has a career .263 batting average in the majors. Garcia also has a higher OPS than Estrada, .773 to .728.
However, Estrada is a better fielder than Garcia. He has a career fielding percentage of .975, while Garcia has a career fielding percentage of .967.
The Verdict
The Yankees are in need of a utility infielder, and Garcia and Estrada are both viable options. Garcia is a better hitter, but Estrada is a better fielder.
The Yankees will likely make a decision on which player to add to their bench this spring. Garcia is the more likely option, but Estrada could also be a valuable addition.
Conclusion
The Yankees are in a good position to compete for a World Series title in 2023. They have a strong lineup, a solid rotation, and a good bullpen.
The addition of a utility infielder like Garcia or Estrada could be the final piece of the puzzle for the Yankees. Both players are capable of contributing on both sides of the ball, and they could help the Yankees win a championship.
