Projecting Roles for New York Yankees Top Prospects
It hasn't been a year that the New York Yankees envisioned as they entered the 2023 season. With the second-highest payroll in the league, they were expected to compete for a World Series championship.
Sitting under .500 and last place in the AL East entering Sunday, it's been anything but what was envisioned for the Yankees.
However, injuries and the overall underperformance has allowed the front office to call up some of the young, exciting prospects that were in the minor leagues.
Jasson Dominguez has been stealing headlines with his incredible performances since making his major league debut, but there are others that could play major roles in 2024 as well.
With some pieces on the roster hitting free agency, there could be a youth movement in New York, turning to their young players.
Anthony Volpe is expected to stay at shortstop, but there's a possibility he could move to second base and make way for Oswald Peraza being the full time shortstop. Peraza is considered the superior defender in his natural position, but Volpe has flashed his defensive potential.
"FanGraphs’ Defensive Runs Saved statistic rated him second-best in the sport with 15... Though Statcast’s Outs Above Average gave him a 4, which placed him No. 14 among shortstops," writes Brendan Kuty of The Athletic.
There's also a chance that the Yankees could use Peraza as their third baseman in 2024. He would immediately improve the infield defense and continue to gain major league experience. The issue surrounding Peraza is his batting. He has to improve at the plate for New York to use him as an everyday player.
Dominguez could force his way into the outfield rotation for next year if he continues his high level of play. The number two prospect in their organization has limited experience, making the leap from Single-A ball to the MLB in one year.
Catcher Austin Wells could be in the rotation next year. The organization's number eight prospect has improved defensively and started climbing the order of preferred catchers this season. His left handed swing could be an asset with the short right field in their home stadium.
The question is whether or not the Yankees organization is ready for their youth movement to start.
Aaron Boone seems to like what he's seen so far, telling Kuty, "I think the kids have definitely brought an excitement in our room. We’re excited about it. The fan base definitely seems excited about it. I think it’s awesome that they’re supporting us."
