Five bold predictions for New York Yankees in 2016 Spring Training
By Tim Haberin
Aaron Judge won’t be called up before Sept.
Aaron Judge is a popular name among Yankees fans right now, and for good reason. It’s hard not to see Judge’s 6’7″ frame and superhuman swing and not think Giancarlo Stanton. Many are clamoring for the 23-year-old to make the big league jump this year, but they should temper their expectations.
Judge didn’t exactly flourish at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre last season, slashing .224/.308/.373 in 61 games there. That was a far cry from the .284/.350/.516 line he put up in 63 games with Double-A Trenton. Let him conquer the top level of the minor league system before rushing him up to the majors.
It’s also worth noting that the primary candidate for Judge to replace in the outfield – Carlos Beltran – was much better last year than most give him credit for. From May 1 onward, the veteran slashed a hearty .295/.357/.505 and was arguably the Yankees’ most consistent hitter. He may be turning 39 soon, but Beltran will get the chance to see out the final year of his contract.
If the teams needs to promote an outfielder, Slade Heathcott or Mason Williams are more likely to receive the call. Judge could get a September cup of coffee when rosters expand, but that’s it.
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