Everyone always wants the shiny new toy, top prospect. But there is a lot more to consider. Peraza was on 40 man and Volpe wasn't. There is delaying service time when it comes to Volpe. Volpe has barely played at AAA level. Peraza is the better fielding SS at this time.
As a result, all spring, I was firmly in the camp of delaying adding Volpe to 40 man and starting with Peraza at SS. If Volpe and/or Peraza's play, once the regular season started, continued to show that Volpe should play in bigs over Peraza, then you could always s make that decision then. There is no rush.
But Volpe just hasn't stopped hitting all spring. So I finally came around the last couple days to thinking just screw it, put him on 40 man and throw him out there at SS and see what happens.
Looks like that is what they are doing. Volpe really forced their hand. I guarantee Yanks brass wasn't going this direction a week ago, maybe even days ago.
Peraza and Volpe were on a competition to start at SS. So Volpe will be starting. Kiner-Falefa has been playing all different positions this spring in preparation of a utility role.
But at some point the Yanks are going to move Torres in a deal. Volpe should move to 2B in that scenario and Peraza to SS. Peraza is far better defensively, but Volpe is no slouch.
I hope the Yanks are wise enough to put Volpe in as the leadoff hitter from the start. My guess is they won’t as they don’t want to overwhelm him- but they should. His K numbers might not be ideal, but he draws walks and gets on base at a high clip.
Keep in mind that Volpe- even with a poor start to last season (really bad April and May before catching fire the rest of the way) still stole almost 50 bases and had 20+ HR as a leadoff hitter, with a .340 OBP for the season. Put that kind of bat in front of Judge and this team might begin to find an identity.
and Volpe moves to 2B. But, this move is as much about Peraza as it is Volpe. Volpe definitely hit and ran his way to the job, but Peraza hit his way off the job.
and Volpe moves to 2B. But, this move is as much about Peraza as it is Volpe. Volpe definitely hit and ran his way to the job, but Peraza hit his way off the job.
He was also hurt and missed time. They’ll be the double play combination soon enough.
But at some point the Yanks are going to move Torres in a deal. Volpe should move to 2B in that scenario and Peraza to SS. Peraza is far better defensively, but Volpe is no slouch.
I hope the Yanks are wise enough to put Volpe in as the leadoff hitter from the start. My guess is they won’t as they don’t want to overwhelm him- but they should. His K numbers might not be ideal, but he draws walks and gets on base at a high clip.
Keep in mind that Volpe- even with a poor start to last season (really bad April and May before catching fire the rest of the way) still stole almost 50 bases and had 20+ HR as a leadoff hitter, with a .340 OBP for the season. Put that kind of bat in front of Judge and this team might begin to find an identity.
Do we want to give up on Torres? He’s still young. There is upside there. His glove isn’t wonderful and Perazza’s is better but OP’s bat is horrid.
It might not happen right away
rich in DC : 5:44 pm : link
But at some point the Yanks are going to move Torres in a deal. Volpe should move to 2B in that scenario and Peraza to SS. Peraza is far better defensively, but Volpe is no slouch.
I’ll say it again - so much so that he has become undervalued here.
He’s a really valuable player. Noone knows if Peraza will ever hit. Donaldson may have one final stand in him, but even if he does that’s all it’ll be. DJ, who i love, hasn’t made it to the playoffs two years running.
Damn foolish to trade Torres unless youre absolutely blown away, which they wont be this time of year.
But at some point the Yanks are going to move Torres in a deal. Volpe should move to 2B in that scenario and Peraza to SS. Peraza is far better defensively, but Volpe is no slouch.
I hope the Yanks are wise enough to put Volpe in as the leadoff hitter from the start. My guess is they won’t as they don’t want to overwhelm him- but they should. His K numbers might not be ideal, but he draws walks and gets on base at a high clip.
Keep in mind that Volpe- even with a poor start to last season (really bad April and May before catching fire the rest of the way) still stole almost 50 bases and had 20+ HR as a leadoff hitter, with a .340 OBP for the season. Put that kind of bat in front of Judge and this team might begin to find an identity.
I haven't followed the offseason, but I was surprised Torres wasn't moved this winter. DJLM should be their 2B. The other head-scratcher is Donaldson. I know he has a big contract, but the Yankees can afford to eat those--they should have done whatever they needed to do in order to get him off the team. He was brutal at the plate last year, and being a year older now at 36 or whatever he is, I don't expect him to do any better going forward.
I’ll say it again - so much so that he has become undervalued here.
He’s a really valuable player. ...damn foolish to trade Torres unless youre absolutely blown away, which they wont be this time of year.
He's a decent player, though I'm not sure he qualifies as "valuable" at this juncture. As far as that first monster year he had when every other AB against Baltimore was a home run, I think that ship has sailed. Not a high baseball IQ, and he seems to loaf it out there.
Gleyber has settled into "the Gary Sanchez of second basemen."
Gary couldn’t hit above the mendoza line! Gleyber was, statistically, like, the 4th best 2b in the AL last year.
He’s absolutley the victim of inflated expectations, and his very successful career is viewed through the lens of not living up to the outrageous example of his rookie season when MLB has using the rocket-ball. (It’s also something he’s had to adjust to after becoming convinced that he was a power-hitter first - he’s always best when he’s looking for line drives alley to alley.)
He’s going to play this year at 26. He’s cost controlled for two more years. There’s absolutely no guarantee that Peraza reaches level - or, hell, even Volpe.
He was 14% better by OPS than thw average major leaguer last year at an up the middle position.
You guys are outta your mind to think that’s not a valuable player. Lumping him in with Sanchez is just a real example of the expectation fatigue of the past few years.
The real problem is we have too many bodies for not enough spots. The guy I really want to get rid of is IKF. Donaldson was terrible at the plate last year but at least the guy can still field.
RE: RE: People have been t0o excited to move Torres
I’ll say it again - so much so that he has become undervalued here.
He’s a really valuable player. ...damn foolish to trade Torres unless youre absolutely blown away, which they wont be this time of year.
He's a decent player, though I'm not sure he qualifies as "valuable" at this juncture. As far as that first monster year he had when every other AB against Baltimore was a home run, I think that ship has sailed. Not a high baseball IQ, and he seems to loaf it out there.
Gleyber has settled into "the Gary Sanchez of second basemen."
Wow Grunnings, you are a good fan and really good poster, but Torres is not a loafer and he is a lot better than you give him credit for. That 1st year ruined reality for fans. Playing out of position at SS soured fans through no fault of his.
He plays hard. He loves being a Yankee. He went out of his way to learn and speak English. I think he hustles and sometimes he plays too hard and makes a mental mistake on the paths - although most times he hustles himself to an additional base. His mistakes are normally commission, not omission. I think he is too hard on himself too often.
Sorry my friend, Torres is still capable of being All Star quality. He is a good 2nd baseman with some pop. If he can get away from swinging at FBs up in his eyes, his average would go up 30 points.
The guys that should be sent away are Hicks and IKF(in that order).
well that's one finally. now if they could just unclog the roster and
I feel Gleyber is feeling a lot of the fan effects of not being the next great Yankees SS, and having to move off the position, which we thought we solidified for a decade plus when we acquired him.
He couldn't cut it at SS, but he's become a damn solid 2B that just had a 4 WAR season at age 26. He might become a victim of a number crunch in the next season and a half, but he's certainly proved he belongs. He's probably not the 38 HR guy that he looked like when the ball was juiced, but if he's settling into that 20-25 HR range we have to be happy.
I’ll say it again - so much so that he has become undervalued here.
He’s a really valuable player. Noone knows if Peraza will ever hit. Donaldson may have one final stand in him, but even if he does that’s all it’ll be. DJ, who i love, hasn’t made it to the playoffs two years running.
Damn foolish to trade Torres unless youre absolutely blown away, which they wont be this time of year.
Torres can also make it a difficult decision by starting the season out very strong. There also may be some combination where one of the 3 replaces Donaldson at 3rd.
But at some point the Yanks are going to move Torres in a deal. Volpe should move to 2B in that scenario and Peraza to SS. Peraza is far better defensively, but Volpe is no slouch.
I hope the Yanks are wise enough to put Volpe in as the leadoff hitter from the start. My guess is they won’t as they don’t want to overwhelm him- but they should. His K numbers might not be ideal, but he draws walks and gets on base at a high clip.
Keep in mind that Volpe- even with a poor start to last season (really bad April and May before catching fire the rest of the way) still stole almost 50 bases and had 20+ HR as a leadoff hitter, with a .340 OBP for the season. Put that kind of bat in front of Judge and this team might begin to find an identity.
I haven't followed the offseason, but I was surprised Torres wasn't moved this winter. DJLM should be their 2B. The other head-scratcher is Donaldson. I know he has a big contract, but the Yankees can afford to eat those--they should have done whatever they needed to do in order to get him off the team. He was brutal at the plate last year, and being a year older now at 36 or whatever he is, I don't expect him to do any better going forward.
Torres probably wasn't moved because of questions around DJLM's foot injury and no one could have predicted that Volpe would have the Spring that he's had. I would hang on to Torres longer as Perez has only been so-so this Spring and to see how well DJLM's is going to hold up.
we still have an all righthanded hitting lineup that hits .200 and strikes out a ton. That has been Cashmans formula for being bounced out of playoffs for last ten years.
Works like a charm .
RE: well that's one finally. now if they could just unclog the roster and
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
RE: RE: RE: well that's one finally. now if they could just unclog the roster and
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
IDK, between DJLM's versatility and Cabrera, I think the Yank's have utility guy covered with better hitting options.
RE: RE: RE: well that's one finally. now if they could just unclog the roster and
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
yup agree
RE: RE: RE: RE: well that's one finally. now if they could just unclog the roster and
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
IDK, between DJLM's versatility and Cabrera, I think the Yank's have utility guy covered with better hitting options.
I don't think there is anything wrong with having all 3. And, if they ever wise up and decide to eat some of Donaldson's salary and move him, IKF can play 3B. He did win a gold glove there a couple of years ago. I was calling for him to move there last year as early as July to allow Peraza to play every day at SS. Now it's a moot point, but the move may still make sense for them.
DJLM and Cabrera may be getting mostly regular playing time, but at a different position every day. Personally, I'd have Cabrera in LF over Hicks to start the season.
we still have an all righthanded hitting lineup that hits .200 and strikes out a ton. That has been Cashmans formula for being bounced out of playoffs for last ten years.
Works like a charm .
That's a strange quote specifically in response to this move. This Spring, Volpe has shown a penchant for not striking out a lot and an incredible eye. It's amazing. People clamoring for Cashman to give the kids a chance and then as soon as he does, there are complaints about the kids.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: well that's one finally. now if they could just unclog the roster and
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
IDK, between DJLM's versatility and Cabrera, I think the Yank's have utility guy covered with better hitting options.
I don't think there is anything wrong with having all 3. And, if they ever wise up and decide to eat some of Donaldson's salary and move him, IKF can play 3B. He did win a gold glove there a couple of years ago. I was calling for him to move there last year as early as July to allow Peraza to play every day at SS. Now it's a moot point, but the move may still make sense for them.
DJLM and Cabrera may be getting mostly regular playing time, but at a different position every day. Personally, I'd have Cabrera in LF over Hicks to start the season.
I hate Donaldson but there is zero reason to play IKF at third over Donaldson. Donaldson at least has a chance to be a decent offensive player while IKF does not.
IKF really has no role on this team. He can't be the utility guy because Cabrera is better than he is in every single way. With Gleyber, Volpe, DJ and Cabrera and Peraza waiting in the wings, he's got no value to the team.
I think there's a good chance he's gone by opening day now that Volpe won the gig.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: well that's one finally. now if they could just unclog the roster and
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
IDK, between DJLM's versatility and Cabrera, I think the Yank's have utility guy covered with better hitting options.
I don't think there is anything wrong with having all 3. And, if they ever wise up and decide to eat some of Donaldson's salary and move him, IKF can play 3B. He did win a gold glove there a couple of years ago. I was calling for him to move there last year as early as July to allow Peraza to play every day at SS. Now it's a moot point, but the move may still make sense for them.
DJLM and Cabrera may be getting mostly regular playing time, but at a different position every day. Personally, I'd have Cabrera in LF over Hicks to start the season.
I hate Donaldson but there is zero reason to play IKF at third over Donaldson. Donaldson at least has a chance to be a decent offensive player while IKF does not.
IKF really has no role on this team. He can't be the utility guy because Cabrera is better than he is in every single way. With Gleyber, Volpe, DJ and Cabrera and Peraza waiting in the wings, he's got no value to the team.
I think there's a good chance he's gone by opening day now that Volpe won the gig.
The one reason that may become reality is he doesn't make a lot of money, and thus could be easier to trade than the other options. I'd be fine with him gone, but want nothing to do with Donaldson.
He might garner the most interest from other teams given his cost controlled status and youth. They seem unwilling or unable to deal the 4 INF veterans, so Peraza may end up the odd man out. The alternative may be that he turns into another top prospect that gets wasted on the bench or AAA until he has little value.
At 6M, IKF would be the highest paid player, at least close, on the
A’s, Pirates and Rays. Here he’s the back-up to the back-up (Cabrera) to the IF utility guy (DJ.) What a luxury to have?!?! It’s unbelievable how stacked we are. Let IKF catch? Where is the guy who was supposed to be the prized return of tbe trade? Didn’t he have a lat strain too two years ago? I hope we are not sending Sevy to the same doctor.
That’s the stance most of you want to take, and that’s fine, but I will never get the mental gymnastics some go through here to defend Cashman. Money can erase a lot of mistakes, but they are still mistakes.
Of course, this is but a small example of how the resources, however infinite, have been mishandled. Too bad teams cannot have roster spots in proportion to the payroll.
BTW, did any of you see that Mr. October Reggie Jackson is working for the Astros now? He said he was overwhelmed by the analytics people, so he left. Not that I give a rat’s ass about Reggie, but this does reflect how much this organization has changed.
RE: At 6M, IKF would be the highest paid player, at least close, on the
Where is the guy who was supposed to be the prized return of tbe trade? Didn’t he have a lat strain too two years ago? I hope we are not sending Sevy to the same doctor.
He had a circulation problem and had surgery for an aneurysm near his shoulder. Started throwing again last week.
He might garner the most interest from other teams given his cost controlled status and youth. They seem unwilling or unable to deal the 4 INF veterans, so Peraza may end up the odd man out. The alternative may be that he turns into another top prospect that gets wasted on the bench or AAA until he has little value.
I believe many fans are overthinking this. Volpe forced the issue with his play. But Peraza is the real deal at SS- with big speed (which I believe many fans will be surprised to see the SB return as a major offensive factor this season under the new rules) and real power. Peraza isn’t much of a walks guy, so his OBP won’t ever be great. But for a SS, he can be a force.
Remember that a significant portion of the current roster will turn over after the season. Donaldson’s contract runs and I seriously doubt they want to bring him back. My best guess- they simply slide DJLM over the 3B, with IKF and Cabrera providing backup.
I believe that the Yanks will trade Torres- either at the trade deadline or after the season ends. He isn’t going to be better than Volpe, who will eventually be the 2B.
Bader might leave in FA after the season. He was a good idea in theory, but his inability to stay healthy will end up being his ticket out. Don’t be shocked if the Yanks fast track Dominguez to CF next season- with a September call up possible.
Something to consider- the Yanks may well use 2024 to dip under the luxury tax again. Probably the only real way to do that effectively is to eventually trade Stanton. After 202, he only has 4 seasons left at about $100M left. In this FA market, that’s a relative bargain. He has a full no-trade, and I believe the only team he would approve a trade to is the Dodgers. The Dodgers are trying to use a patchwork of vets- but this appears to be an issue there. They might be more receptive this off-season if the Yanks don’t have a big ask in return.
Again - why would you rather trade Torres than move him to third?
Donaldson is on the edge of being completely cooked, if he isn't already all the way there, and LeMahieu will turn 35 this season and hasn't been able to stay healthy for any length of time. Who is the third baseman going forward if you deal Torres?
RE: Again - why would you rather trade Torres than move him to third?
Donaldson is on the edge of being completely cooked, if he isn't already all the way there, and LeMahieu will turn 35 this season and hasn't been able to stay healthy for any length of time. Who is the third baseman going forward if you deal Torres?
Yeah the solution seems so easy. Volpe/Gleyber/Perazza and one plays 3B next year and DJ is the super sub everywhere. could even be this year if Donaldson is cooked and gets off to a slow start by June just DFA him. People are trying to run Gleyber out way too much. He had a solid year last year. He won't be juiced ball 20 hrs vs the O's Gleyber again, but 20 hr's or so and 50-60 XBH's is very realistic with solid D at 2b.
RE: RE: Again - why would you rather trade Torres than move him to third?
Donaldson is on the edge of being completely cooked, if he isn't already all the way there, and LeMahieu will turn 35 this season and hasn't been able to stay healthy for any length of time. Who is the third baseman going forward if you deal Torres?
Yeah the solution seems so easy. Volpe/Gleyber/Perazza and one plays 3B next year and DJ is the super sub everywhere. could even be this year if Donaldson is cooked and gets off to a slow start by June just DFA him. People are trying to run Gleyber out way too much. He had a solid year last year. He won't be juiced ball 20 hrs vs the O's Gleyber again, but 20 hr's or so and 50-60 XBH's is very realistic with solid D at 2b.
Yep, I agree. Torres is solid, in my view.
the boneheaded Sanchez move is killing them. Would have been so easy
just DFA him. Now you have in infield logjam stalling progress and perhaps causing a trade of a valuable player. Same in the OF with Hicks and Stanton.
RE: the boneheaded Sanchez move is killing them. Would have been so easy
just DFA him. Now you have in infield logjam stalling progress and perhaps causing a trade of a valuable player. Same in the OF with Hicks and Stanton.
No, it really isn't. They got some value back for him. IKF did ok for what was asked. The logjam is really what you want. You want options at as many positions as possible. Some competition and then trade for more bodies, even if in restocking the minors.
RE: RE: the boneheaded Sanchez move is killing them. Would have been so easy
just DFA him. Now you have in infield logjam stalling progress and perhaps causing a trade of a valuable player. Same in the OF with Hicks and Stanton.
No, it really isn't. They got some value back for him. IKF did ok for what was asked. The logjam is really what you want. You want options at as many positions as possible. Some competition and then trade for more bodies, even if in restocking the minors.
I like IKF, but not at the cost of taking on Donaldson. To me that makes the trade a huge loss.
RE: RE: RE: the boneheaded Sanchez move is killing them. Would have been so easy
just DFA him. Now you have in infield logjam stalling progress and perhaps causing a trade of a valuable player. Same in the OF with Hicks and Stanton.
No, it really isn't. They got some value back for him. IKF did ok for what was asked. The logjam is really what you want. You want options at as many positions as possible. Some competition and then trade for more bodies, even if in restocking the minors.
I like IKF, but not at the cost of taking on Donaldson. To me that makes the trade a huge loss.
Not a Donaldson fan either, but he is better than IKF. But I would not be opposed to DFAing him if he still cannot hit this year.
I do think IKF has trade value.
RE: RE: RE: RE: the boneheaded Sanchez move is killing them. Would have been so easy
just DFA him. Now you have in infield logjam stalling progress and perhaps causing a trade of a valuable player. Same in the OF with Hicks and Stanton.
No, it really isn't. They got some value back for him. IKF did ok for what was asked. The logjam is really what you want. You want options at as many positions as possible. Some competition and then trade for more bodies, even if in restocking the minors.
I like IKF, but not at the cost of taking on Donaldson. To me that makes the trade a huge loss.
Not a Donaldson fan either, but he is better than IKF. But I would not be opposed to DFAing him if he still cannot hit this year.
I do think IKF has trade value.
I think IKF has value for the Yanks too. He can also catch in a pinch in addition to playing all around the IF and he's a decent hitter. In this day and age with only 3 or 4 bench players that's an asset.
They’ve got one extra guy. It’s not a bad thing to have a high-ceiling MLB-ready SS prospect just awaiting the call in AAA. He’ll be up soon enough. They’ve got a good bench.
There’s been a lot of handwringing and I get that it was rather messy for a moment, but they’re in a good spot with all avenues covered now, and the ability to adapt to whatever comes down the pike: whether that’s playing the hot hand or making a move from a position of strength and not out of desperation.
It may all be empty noise, but they haven’t missed an opportunity to indicate they think Donaldson has a better year this year. That would go a long way towards solidifying things.
It makes no sense not to give Donaldson a chance to regain form.
He hasn't had an OPS below .800 since 2014! He's a great glove and last year was his first year in pinstripes. Its not uncommon for guys to press a bit and then produce in year 2. The yankees need to give him an opportunity early in the season to be that guy again. If not, then you move on. If so, he adds a lot to the lineup. Its certainly possible that father time is winning this one already, but its also possible that donaldson has something left in the tank.
He's obviously going to start the season in the lineup, and there's a whole lot of chatter about him rebuilding his swing. If it works, great. However, they really need to be ready to yank him relatively quickly if it's more of the same from him come April. I don't want to see him dragging the lineup down for two months before they make a change.
Kinda went under the radar with the SS competition
but Oswaldo Cabrera kicked ass this spring. I know, I know - Higgy hit a million HRs last spring, but Cabrera and Volpe have me feeling a lot better about this season. They will spare us a lot of Hicks/IKF at bats, if nothing else.
Volpe has had an adjustment period whenever he's moved up a level. It wouldn't surprise me if this happens again, and he gets off to a slow start at the plate.
Volpe has had an adjustment period whenever he's moved up a level. It wouldn't surprise me if this happens again, and he gets off to a slow start at the plate.
This is a concern that I've had as well. Kid is going to need a little runway to adjust, he's not going to show up as a .300 hitter.
The good news for Volpe is that the bar is set pretty low.
Volpe has had an adjustment period whenever he's moved up a level. It wouldn't surprise me if this happens again, and he gets off to a slow start at the plate.
wasn't it the opposite at AAA last year? He tore it up for like 2 weeks right off the bat and then struggled the last 3 or 4 weeks? Any way I think the fans will be fine with him. He's not one of those long swing slugger types, so as long as he's making decent contact he should be ok. Plus we're so starved to see a young kid get a shot that hopefully he'll have a nice honeymoon grace period.
Relatedly, I think I despise IKF more than most of you guys.
Having a utility fielder who can't hit or field is not something I appreciate. Can't wait until that guy is off the team. At least Donaldson can field.
the Yanks signed Franchy Cordero to a ML-deal today?
They also officially released Ortega, so the last spot really looks (looked?) like it’s Florials, but Ive no idea what this Cordero signing does. He stinks. He plays first and corner outfield? He’s like a worse version of Calhoun. I dont get it.
Volpe - ( New Window )
Any word on Brito yet?
Any word on Brito yet?
He would have to be the starter. He won't get better sitting on the bench, he'd have been better off playing everyday a SWB.
Glad to hear it.
As a result, all spring, I was firmly in the camp of delaying adding Volpe to 40 man and starting with Peraza at SS. If Volpe and/or Peraza's play, once the regular season started, continued to show that Volpe should play in bigs over Peraza, then you could always s make that decision then. There is no rush.
But Volpe just hasn't stopped hitting all spring. So I finally came around the last couple days to thinking just screw it, put him on 40 man and throw him out there at SS and see what happens.
Looks like that is what they are doing. Volpe really forced their hand. I guarantee Yanks brass wasn't going this direction a week ago, maybe even days ago.
Any word on Brito yet?
Peraza and Volpe were on a competition to start at SS. So Volpe will be starting. Kiner-Falefa has been playing all different positions this spring in preparation of a utility role.
I hope the Yanks are wise enough to put Volpe in as the leadoff hitter from the start. My guess is they won’t as they don’t want to overwhelm him- but they should. His K numbers might not be ideal, but he draws walks and gets on base at a high clip.
Keep in mind that Volpe- even with a poor start to last season (really bad April and May before catching fire the rest of the way) still stole almost 50 bases and had 20+ HR as a leadoff hitter, with a .340 OBP for the season. Put that kind of bat in front of Judge and this team might begin to find an identity.
He was also hurt and missed time. They’ll be the double play combination soon enough.
I hope the Yanks are wise enough to put Volpe in as the leadoff hitter from the start. My guess is they won’t as they don’t want to overwhelm him- but they should. His K numbers might not be ideal, but he draws walks and gets on base at a high clip.
Keep in mind that Volpe- even with a poor start to last season (really bad April and May before catching fire the rest of the way) still stole almost 50 bases and had 20+ HR as a leadoff hitter, with a .340 OBP for the season. Put that kind of bat in front of Judge and this team might begin to find an identity.
Do we want to give up on Torres? He’s still young. There is upside there. His glove isn’t wonderful and Perazza’s is better but OP’s bat is horrid.
rich in DC : 5:44 pm : link
But at some point the Yanks are going to move Torres in a deal. Volpe should move to 2B in that scenario and Peraza to SS. Peraza is far better defensively, but Volpe is no slouch.
Aaron Boone is so damn corny.
I bet other prospects in the system take note of this.
I bet it also has an effect on the team in general, no "scholarships". Your contract might be guaranteed but your position and playing time are not.
this is the right way.
He’s a really valuable player. Noone knows if Peraza will ever hit. Donaldson may have one final stand in him, but even if he does that’s all it’ll be. DJ, who i love, hasn’t made it to the playoffs two years running.
Damn foolish to trade Torres unless youre absolutely blown away, which they wont be this time of year.
I hope the Yanks are wise enough to put Volpe in as the leadoff hitter from the start. My guess is they won’t as they don’t want to overwhelm him- but they should. His K numbers might not be ideal, but he draws walks and gets on base at a high clip.
Keep in mind that Volpe- even with a poor start to last season (really bad April and May before catching fire the rest of the way) still stole almost 50 bases and had 20+ HR as a leadoff hitter, with a .340 OBP for the season. Put that kind of bat in front of Judge and this team might begin to find an identity.
I haven't followed the offseason, but I was surprised Torres wasn't moved this winter. DJLM should be their 2B. The other head-scratcher is Donaldson. I know he has a big contract, but the Yankees can afford to eat those--they should have done whatever they needed to do in order to get him off the team. He was brutal at the plate last year, and being a year older now at 36 or whatever he is, I don't expect him to do any better going forward.
He’s a really valuable player. ...damn foolish to trade Torres unless youre absolutely blown away, which they wont be this time of year.
He's a decent player, though I'm not sure he qualifies as "valuable" at this juncture. As far as that first monster year he had when every other AB against Baltimore was a home run, I think that ship has sailed. Not a high baseball IQ, and he seems to loaf it out there.
Gleyber has settled into "the Gary Sanchez of second basemen."
He’s absolutley the victim of inflated expectations, and his very successful career is viewed through the lens of not living up to the outrageous example of his rookie season when MLB has using the rocket-ball. (It’s also something he’s had to adjust to after becoming convinced that he was a power-hitter first - he’s always best when he’s looking for line drives alley to alley.)
He’s going to play this year at 26. He’s cost controlled for two more years. There’s absolutely no guarantee that Peraza reaches level - or, hell, even Volpe.
He was 14% better by OPS than thw average major leaguer last year at an up the middle position.
You guys are outta your mind to think that’s not a valuable player. Lumping him in with Sanchez is just a real example of the expectation fatigue of the past few years.
Quote:
I’ll say it again - so much so that he has become undervalued here.
He’s a really valuable player. ...damn foolish to trade Torres unless youre absolutely blown away, which they wont be this time of year.
He's a decent player, though I'm not sure he qualifies as "valuable" at this juncture. As far as that first monster year he had when every other AB against Baltimore was a home run, I think that ship has sailed. Not a high baseball IQ, and he seems to loaf it out there.
Gleyber has settled into "the Gary Sanchez of second basemen."
Wow Grunnings, you are a good fan and really good poster, but Torres is not a loafer and he is a lot better than you give him credit for. That 1st year ruined reality for fans. Playing out of position at SS soured fans through no fault of his.
He plays hard. He loves being a Yankee. He went out of his way to learn and speak English. I think he hustles and sometimes he plays too hard and makes a mental mistake on the paths - although most times he hustles himself to an additional base. His mistakes are normally commission, not omission. I think he is too hard on himself too often.
Sorry my friend, Torres is still capable of being All Star quality. He is a good 2nd baseman with some pop. If he can get away from swinging at FBs up in his eyes, his average would go up 30 points.
The guys that should be sent away are Hicks and IKF(in that order).
He couldn't cut it at SS, but he's become a damn solid 2B that just had a 4 WAR season at age 26. He might become a victim of a number crunch in the next season and a half, but he's certainly proved he belongs. He's probably not the 38 HR guy that he looked like when the ball was juiced, but if he's settling into that 20-25 HR range we have to be happy.
He’s a really valuable player. Noone knows if Peraza will ever hit. Donaldson may have one final stand in him, but even if he does that’s all it’ll be. DJ, who i love, hasn’t made it to the playoffs two years running.
Damn foolish to trade Torres unless youre absolutely blown away, which they wont be this time of year.
Quote:
But at some point the Yanks are going to move Torres in a deal. Volpe should move to 2B in that scenario and Peraza to SS. Peraza is far better defensively, but Volpe is no slouch.
I hope the Yanks are wise enough to put Volpe in as the leadoff hitter from the start. My guess is they won’t as they don’t want to overwhelm him- but they should. His K numbers might not be ideal, but he draws walks and gets on base at a high clip.
Keep in mind that Volpe- even with a poor start to last season (really bad April and May before catching fire the rest of the way) still stole almost 50 bases and had 20+ HR as a leadoff hitter, with a .340 OBP for the season. Put that kind of bat in front of Judge and this team might begin to find an identity.
I haven't followed the offseason, but I was surprised Torres wasn't moved this winter. DJLM should be their 2B. The other head-scratcher is Donaldson. I know he has a big contract, but the Yankees can afford to eat those--they should have done whatever they needed to do in order to get him off the team. He was brutal at the plate last year, and being a year older now at 36 or whatever he is, I don't expect him to do any better going forward.
Works like a charm .
This. We'll keep getting force fed with the likes of these two I imagine
Quote:
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
Quote:
In comment 16075868 Victor in CT said:
Quote:
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
Quote:
In comment 16075868 Victor in CT said:
Quote:
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
yup agree
Quote:
In comment 16076091 Beer Man said:
Quote:
In comment 16075868 Victor in CT said:
Quote:
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
IDK, between DJLM's versatility and Cabrera, I think the Yank's have utility guy covered with better hitting options.
DJLM and Cabrera may be getting mostly regular playing time, but at a different position every day. Personally, I'd have Cabrera in LF over Hicks to start the season.
Works like a charm .
Quote:
In comment 16076098 BigBlueShock said:
Quote:
In comment 16076091 Beer Man said:
Quote:
In comment 16075868 Victor in CT said:
Quote:
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
IDK, between DJLM's versatility and Cabrera, I think the Yank's have utility guy covered with better hitting options.
I don't think there is anything wrong with having all 3. And, if they ever wise up and decide to eat some of Donaldson's salary and move him, IKF can play 3B. He did win a gold glove there a couple of years ago. I was calling for him to move there last year as early as July to allow Peraza to play every day at SS. Now it's a moot point, but the move may still make sense for them.
DJLM and Cabrera may be getting mostly regular playing time, but at a different position every day. Personally, I'd have Cabrera in LF over Hicks to start the season.
I hate Donaldson but there is zero reason to play IKF at third over Donaldson. Donaldson at least has a chance to be a decent offensive player while IKF does not.
IKF really has no role on this team. He can't be the utility guy because Cabrera is better than he is in every single way. With Gleyber, Volpe, DJ and Cabrera and Peraza waiting in the wings, he's got no value to the team.
I think there's a good chance he's gone by opening day now that Volpe won the gig.
Quote:
In comment 16076112 Beer Man said:
Quote:
In comment 16076098 BigBlueShock said:
Quote:
In comment 16076091 Beer Man said:
Quote:
In comment 16075868 Victor in CT said:
Quote:
themselves of the Donaldson and Hicks albatrosses they do more. Stanton is another one but you can carry one, not 3.
I'd add IKF to the list
There is nothing wrong with having IKF on the bench as a utility guy. Hell, he can even catch if needed. He doesn’t make a lot of money so as long as he’s in the right role he’s fairly valuable
IDK, between DJLM's versatility and Cabrera, I think the Yank's have utility guy covered with better hitting options.
I don't think there is anything wrong with having all 3. And, if they ever wise up and decide to eat some of Donaldson's salary and move him, IKF can play 3B. He did win a gold glove there a couple of years ago. I was calling for him to move there last year as early as July to allow Peraza to play every day at SS. Now it's a moot point, but the move may still make sense for them.
DJLM and Cabrera may be getting mostly regular playing time, but at a different position every day. Personally, I'd have Cabrera in LF over Hicks to start the season.
I hate Donaldson but there is zero reason to play IKF at third over Donaldson. Donaldson at least has a chance to be a decent offensive player while IKF does not.
IKF really has no role on this team. He can't be the utility guy because Cabrera is better than he is in every single way. With Gleyber, Volpe, DJ and Cabrera and Peraza waiting in the wings, he's got no value to the team.
I think there's a good chance he's gone by opening day now that Volpe won the gig.
That’s the stance most of you want to take, and that’s fine, but I will never get the mental gymnastics some go through here to defend Cashman. Money can erase a lot of mistakes, but they are still mistakes.
Of course, this is but a small example of how the resources, however infinite, have been mishandled. Too bad teams cannot have roster spots in proportion to the payroll.
BTW, did any of you see that Mr. October Reggie Jackson is working for the Astros now? He said he was overwhelmed by the analytics people, so he left. Not that I give a rat’s ass about Reggie, but this does reflect how much this organization has changed.
He had a circulation problem and had surgery for an aneurysm near his shoulder. Started throwing again last week.
I believe many fans are overthinking this. Volpe forced the issue with his play. But Peraza is the real deal at SS- with big speed (which I believe many fans will be surprised to see the SB return as a major offensive factor this season under the new rules) and real power. Peraza isn’t much of a walks guy, so his OBP won’t ever be great. But for a SS, he can be a force.
Remember that a significant portion of the current roster will turn over after the season. Donaldson’s contract runs and I seriously doubt they want to bring him back. My best guess- they simply slide DJLM over the 3B, with IKF and Cabrera providing backup.
I believe that the Yanks will trade Torres- either at the trade deadline or after the season ends. He isn’t going to be better than Volpe, who will eventually be the 2B.
Bader might leave in FA after the season. He was a good idea in theory, but his inability to stay healthy will end up being his ticket out. Don’t be shocked if the Yanks fast track Dominguez to CF next season- with a September call up possible.
Something to consider- the Yanks may well use 2024 to dip under the luxury tax again. Probably the only real way to do that effectively is to eventually trade Stanton. After 202, he only has 4 seasons left at about $100M left. In this FA market, that’s a relative bargain. He has a full no-trade, and I believe the only team he would approve a trade to is the Dodgers. The Dodgers are trying to use a patchwork of vets- but this appears to be an issue there. They might be more receptive this off-season if the Yanks don’t have a big ask in return.
Yeah the solution seems so easy. Volpe/Gleyber/Perazza and one plays 3B next year and DJ is the super sub everywhere. could even be this year if Donaldson is cooked and gets off to a slow start by June just DFA him. People are trying to run Gleyber out way too much. He had a solid year last year. He won't be juiced ball 20 hrs vs the O's Gleyber again, but 20 hr's or so and 50-60 XBH's is very realistic with solid D at 2b.
Quote:
Donaldson is on the edge of being completely cooked, if he isn't already all the way there, and LeMahieu will turn 35 this season and hasn't been able to stay healthy for any length of time. Who is the third baseman going forward if you deal Torres?
Yeah the solution seems so easy. Volpe/Gleyber/Perazza and one plays 3B next year and DJ is the super sub everywhere. could even be this year if Donaldson is cooked and gets off to a slow start by June just DFA him. People are trying to run Gleyber out way too much. He had a solid year last year. He won't be juiced ball 20 hrs vs the O's Gleyber again, but 20 hr's or so and 50-60 XBH's is very realistic with solid D at 2b.
Yep, I agree. Torres is solid, in my view.
No, it really isn't. They got some value back for him. IKF did ok for what was asked. The logjam is really what you want. You want options at as many positions as possible. Some competition and then trade for more bodies, even if in restocking the minors.
Quote:
just DFA him. Now you have in infield logjam stalling progress and perhaps causing a trade of a valuable player. Same in the OF with Hicks and Stanton.
No, it really isn't. They got some value back for him. IKF did ok for what was asked. The logjam is really what you want. You want options at as many positions as possible. Some competition and then trade for more bodies, even if in restocking the minors.
I like IKF, but not at the cost of taking on Donaldson. To me that makes the trade a huge loss.
Quote:
In comment 16076928 Victor in CT said:
Quote:
just DFA him. Now you have in infield logjam stalling progress and perhaps causing a trade of a valuable player. Same in the OF with Hicks and Stanton.
No, it really isn't. They got some value back for him. IKF did ok for what was asked. The logjam is really what you want. You want options at as many positions as possible. Some competition and then trade for more bodies, even if in restocking the minors.
I like IKF, but not at the cost of taking on Donaldson. To me that makes the trade a huge loss.
Not a Donaldson fan either, but he is better than IKF. But I would not be opposed to DFAing him if he still cannot hit this year.
I do think IKF has trade value.
Quote:
In comment 16076934 section125 said:
Quote:
In comment 16076928 Victor in CT said:
Quote:
just DFA him. Now you have in infield logjam stalling progress and perhaps causing a trade of a valuable player. Same in the OF with Hicks and Stanton.
No, it really isn't. They got some value back for him. IKF did ok for what was asked. The logjam is really what you want. You want options at as many positions as possible. Some competition and then trade for more bodies, even if in restocking the minors.
I like IKF, but not at the cost of taking on Donaldson. To me that makes the trade a huge loss.
Not a Donaldson fan either, but he is better than IKF. But I would not be opposed to DFAing him if he still cannot hit this year.
I do think IKF has trade value.
I think IKF has value for the Yanks too. He can also catch in a pinch in addition to playing all around the IF and he's a decent hitter. In this day and age with only 3 or 4 bench players that's an asset.
There’s been a lot of handwringing and I get that it was rather messy for a moment, but they’re in a good spot with all avenues covered now, and the ability to adapt to whatever comes down the pike: whether that’s playing the hot hand or making a move from a position of strength and not out of desperation.
It may all be empty noise, but they haven’t missed an opportunity to indicate they think Donaldson has a better year this year. That would go a long way towards solidifying things.
Volpe - ( New Window )
that is a sign that they really think big things for him. It's the lowest unretired number.
This is a concern that I've had as well. Kid is going to need a little runway to adjust, he's not going to show up as a .300 hitter.
wasn't it the opposite at AAA last year? He tore it up for like 2 weeks right off the bat and then struggled the last 3 or 4 weeks? Any way I think the fans will be fine with him. He's not one of those long swing slugger types, so as long as he's making decent contact he should be ok. Plus we're so starved to see a young kid get a shot that hopefully he'll have a nice honeymoon grace period.
They also officially released Ortega, so the last spot really looks (looked?) like it’s Florials, but Ive no idea what this Cordero signing does. He stinks. He plays first and corner outfield? He’s like a worse version of Calhoun. I dont get it.