New York Yankees Infielders
DJ LeMahieu (5.4 fWAR) was arguably the most important free-agent signing of the 2019 MLB season. Not only is he being talked about as a serious candidate for the AL MVP award, he just about single-handedly kept the New York Yankees relevant during this past season.
Because Didi was set to miss a good portion of the season, DJ managed to play second base while Gleyber filled in at short. Then, after the team lost Miguel Andujar in the first week, he seamlessly filled in at third. Finally, he also demonstrated a great ability to play first base once Voit also fell to injury.
What’s more, LeMahieu wore all of these hats while also stringing together, arguably, his best offensive season. His stats: .327 AVG, .375 OBP, and .518 SLG all exceed his career averages.
FINAL LETTER GRADE FOR 2019: A+
Gio Urshela (3.1 fWAR) was a blessing in disguise for the Yankees this season. Highly regarded because of his defensive prowess, this season Urshela proved that he can swing a pretty good stick too. This season, Gio hit .314 with a .355 OBP and .534 SLG.
This has left many wondering whether there will be a place for former ROY runner-up Andujar. My guess is, probably not. Not only is Urshela an improved defensive third baseman, but he also demonstrated the type of attitude needed to man the hot corner in New York.
FINAL LETTER GRADE FOR 2019: A