New York Yankees: Infield options not named Todd Frazier

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 16: Todd Frazier
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 16: Todd Frazier
2 of 4
Yankees
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 29: Lucas Duda

Lucas Duda

Lucas Duda clobbered at least 25 bombs in each of the past three seasons. Thus, there is no argument that he can potentially surpass that mark again in 2018.

Like Frazier, the former Rays first baseman has trouble making solid contact on a consistent basis. He never was one to boast a high average anyways, as he hasn’t hit better than .253 since 2014.

New York attempted to utilize a power bat similar to Duda in the past with Chris Carter. Ultimately, that didn’t work out well. Hence, fans may question why the Yankees would want to sign him to a one-year contract if the risk is high and the ceiling is particularly low.

The infielder can offer them what Matt Holliday did last season. He could fill in for Greg Bird when he needs a day off and occasionally slide into the lineup as a designated hitter.

And, he could potentially prosper in a hitting-only role. Though he didn’t fare as well in Tampa Bay as he did in New York last year, the Bronx could be a fit for him. As a left-handed slugger, he would have an advantage at Yankee Stadium.

Yet, Duda may not be the most efficient option on the market for the AL East club.

He doesn’t possess an above-average fielding ability. The 31-year-old hasn’t posted a decisive defensive runs saved since 2010 – his rookie season.

Also, Duda’s lack of versatility only makes him serviceable in the batting order. Frazier offers New York a platoon guy at third base – and possible starter – if the team’s other options don’t fare well.

That wouldn’t be the case with Duda. However, Bird is injury-prone, and Tyler Austin struggled at the plate during his first few seasons. If the Yankees need a safety option at first, Duda could be an option.