Another baby bomber is impressing for the New York Yankees. Can Miguel Andujar force his way onto the opening day roster?
When the New York Yankees let Todd Frazier sign across town and traded Chase Headley back to San Diego, it appeared third base was going to be wide open for top prospect Miguel Andjuar — that all changed with the acquisition of Brandon Drury just last week. Andujar isn’t making it easy on the Yankees brass though.
Andujar has come out firing so far during Spring Training, hitting .400 thus far with two homers, including a walk-off homer Monday night.
"“It’s not about sending a message,” Andujar said through an interpreter. “It’s about doing your job, playing good and helping your team. That’s the way I see it. I’m just doing my job.”"
Even if he isn’t trying to send a message, the message is received.
"“He’s already opened our eyes — not with this camp, but what he’s done and where he’s at in his career,” Cashman said. “The competition is always good. We try to line up as much of that as we can because I think it brings out the best in people.”"
Even if Andujar doesn’t end up starting at the hot corner come opening day, it doesn’t mean he won’t see some time with the Yankees this season. Injuries happen all the time.
The thing that Andujar has needed to work on is his defense. If his bat makes him very deserving, and his defense improves, maybe he can steal the job from Drury.
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Andujar’s emergence is part of the reason why the New York Yankees decided to trade for Drury and not spend money, plus lose draft picks and international pool money on Mike Moustakas who sits unsigned.
If I had to guess, barring injury, I’d say he starts the season in the minors. The club views Drury as more of a third baseman and is excited by his potential as well. He has the versatility to play other positions, but third is what he’s best at playing.
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The New York Yankees already have built an exciting young core and have even more prospects coming, including Andjuar and Gleyber Torres who may start at second base on Opening Day. They have been all about letting the kids play, and if Andujar continues his hot camp, the Yankees may have another one starting at the hot corner this season.