New York Yankees: So when does Oswald Peraza get his chance?

The future was supposed to begin now for the New York Yankees.

Oswald Peraza, one of their top prospects and a player that they refused to discuss in trade, has been brought to the majors. This would seemingly be the answer to their issues at short, where Isiah Kiner-Falefa has proven to be a solid utility player and not a starting option on a playoff caliber team. So naturally, Peraza would be in the lineup, right?

New York Yankees need to play Oswald Peraza

Well, no. Kiner-Falefa not only remained in the lineup on Friday but will also typically hold down shortstop going forward. Manager Aaron Boone said that Peraza “will get his chances” but that Kiner-Falefa will remain as the Yankees starter.

This is clearly exactly what Yankees fans want to hear. Kiner-Falefa has become a target for their ire of late, his offensive shortcomings no longer able to be supported by his defense. Even his defense has been shaky of late, with a costly error leading to a loss.

Peraza is not exactly a given. His offensive capability looks great from a fantasy standpoint as he hit 19 homers and 16 doubles while stealing 33 bases in his 429 plate appearances at Triple-A. However, he also struck out 100 times with 34 walks. He has a tendency to expand the zone, something that could be exploited if he does not change his approach at the plate.

But there is also a matter of what Peraza means. The Yankees have been in a tailspin, suffering through a 10-18 August, their worst month since a 9-19 showing in September 1991. Peraza, even if he does not end up being an upgrade, is at least a symbol of hope and a sign that the Yankees are willing to try something different.

Instead, they are likely to continue doing exactly what they had done all season. Yes, it worked earlier in the season, but that is no longer the case. The Yankees need a change. They need to give Peraza far more of a chance than the occasional game.

The New York Yankees say that Oswald Peraza will get his chances. Those chances need to start soon and keep going through the end of the year.