New York Yankees have secret weapons in Jordan Montgomery, Didi Gregorius

Few teams across the MLB have notable players on the injured list for a significant amount of time prior to the season’s start. But the New York Yankees have two injured players that could be crucial during the second half in Jordan Montgomery and Didi Gregorius.

Baseball fans and analysts are aware that the New York Yankees are already World series contenders. But unlike many managers across the league, New York skipper Aaron Boone has two aces up his sleeve ready to use this summer, a critical time period.

Though it is likely the Yankees front office seeks help at the trade deadline, they might not have to. The addition of Jordan Montgomery and Didi Gregorius will essentially be the equivalent of trading for notable players from another team.

Essentially, the two currently-injured players could propel their squad to the top of the American League East. Of course, New York might already be in that position come June.

Gregorius has fashioned himself into an infield slugger. The shortstop cracked at least 20 home runs in each of the previous three seasons. Last year, the infielder compiled a career-high .829 OPS despite enduring an atrocious May in which he hit .149 across 22 games.

But the Netherlands product still ranks among the top 10 shortstops in the league hitting-wise, though many analysts like Brian Kenny do not agree. He doesn’t strike out a lot, and is typically consistent.

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More importantly, Gregorius is a staple piece in the bottom half of the order, considering he is a left-handed hitter. Although the Yankees shouldn’t have issues scoring runs, Gregorius will still provide a boost when he returns.

Meanwhile, New York’s front office is relying on veteran Troy Tulowitzki to rebound after a few uninspiring seasons in Toronto. The 34-year-old sat out all of 2018 with injuries, but he could possibly return to form with renewed motivation.

The Yankees already boast a top-tier pitching staff, primarily because of the bullpen. However, the team’s starting rotation also showcases a great one-two punch with Luis Severino and James Paxton.

Yet, questions marks surround the fifth rotation spot as CC Sabathia enters his final season. Montgomery was a dependable starter in 2017 and slated to continue his consistent stretch in 2018 until he was forced to undergo Tommy John surgery.

The biggest deficiency pitchers have following the major procedure deals with velocity. But Montgomery focuses more on pitch command and prime placement while on the mound.

Though he typically tops out in the low-90s, Montgomery utilizes his sinker and curveball more anyways. His curveball is his best overall pitch, as opponents own a .168/.207/.269 triple-slash line against it, per FanGraphs.

The southpaw is projected to return at some point in June or July. By then, it is unknown whether Sabathia or an Yankees prospect – maybe Johnathan Loaisiga – will hold down the final rotation spot.

No matter who acts as the team’s fifth pitcher, Montgomery will be a reliable option for the team during its second half. Thus, New York will have two additions near the trade deadline that could help it get closer to World Series No. 28, even without spending additional money.