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Left field could be Oswaldo Cabrera’s path to New York Yankees lineup

By David Hill |
Oct 23, 2022; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Oswaldo Cabrera (95) takes the field to earn up before the game against the Houston Astros during game four of the ALCS for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2022; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Oswaldo Cabrera (95) takes the field to earn up before the game against the Houston Astros during game four of the ALCS for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees need to find a place for Oswaldo Cabrera.

In theory, that place would be in the middle of their infield. Cabrera has spent most of his minor league career at second or short, two areas where he could potentially make an impact. The problem is that he does not have an opening at either position. Gleyber Torres is still at second and the Yankees are determined to keep Isiah Kiner-Falefa at short. Even if the Yankees were to make a move at short, it would be to one of their top prospects – Oswald Peraza or Anthony Volpe.

New York Yankees have opening for Oswaldo Cabrera

But there is a possible opening. Aaron Hicks is penciled in as the Yankees’ primary left fielder, although his questionable health and mediocre production make him less than an ideal option. However, given a lack of impact bats on the market, the Yankees could be stuck with him for another year.

Unless the Yankees plug Cabrera in left. He did spend most of his time in the majors in the corner outfield spots, although the majority of that time was in right. Cabrera did show the type of bat that could stick in such a position as he posted a 109 OPS+ with six homers and eight doubles in his 171 plate appearances. That is certainly better than what the Yankees could expect from Hicks at any point in time.

The problem is that Cabrera can play virtually anywhere on the diamond. Although he appeared in just 44 games, he spent time at both corner outfield spots and every position in the infield. The Yankees need that versatility on their bench, even with D.J. LeMahieu on the roster.

It is all a matter of what will help the Yankees win as many games as possible. There are no more excuses, especially after keeping Aaron Judge and signing Carlos Rodon. Performance is going to matter. To that end, it may be a matter of time before Cabrera takes over as the Yankees’ primary left fielder.

dark. Next. Trading Cortes not an option

The New York Yankees need to find a place for Oswaldo Cabrera in their lineup. It is possible that their opening in left field is the perfect spot.

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