As the regular season is rapidly approaching, spring training continues to shake loose lineup changes, injuries, and position power struggles. There have been numerous injury announcements from both sides of the league, leading to more questions than answers regarding opening day lineups. One question that seems to have narrowed its choices is the Yankee 3rd base that has been in discussion for most of the year. DJ LeMahieu has been ruled out for opening day, presumably with a strain of some sort. Considering the injuries combined with the stats posted from last year, it’s worth wondering if his career may be over at this point. Oswaldo Cabrera is the favorite to fill that gap, the primarily defense first utility player may get his shot at a starting role this year. It seems feasible that he may start, but it is also a possibility that Oswald Peraza could be taking some reps as well from time to time. Both are young guys with a lot to prove to the league and the team, and they will be trying to show what they can do as we get the season kicked off. Whatever shakes out at 3rd, I think both players have the potential to excel at the position and cement a starting role, while bringing some excitement to the corner.
The Yankees are also having an unexpected bout with injuries, raising some questions about the rotation. At the start of spring training the rotation was seemingly too heavy, bringing about the Stroman drama with him not wanting to go to the bullpen. It’s tough to blame him, he’s worked hard to get where he is at, and the transition from starting to relieving can have unforeseen consequences. Regardless, it isn’t an issue now. 2024 rookie of the year Luis Gil is currently out for an unknown amount of time, hopefully not missing much time though. Then this week, star pitcher and ace Gerrit Cole was taken out of the rotation with an apparent elbow injury. Currently there is no timeline, or even a clear path forward, but we wish him a speedy recovery with whatever the case may be. Previously mentioned LeMahieu is still out with no current timeline, and we will see if he comes back at all. Injuries are always a tragedy for players, but at this time of year its especially heartbreaking with the season beginning in just a couple weeks. Hoping all players receive the time and care needed to recover and return to the field. There are several questions that won’t be answered until right before opening day, so stay informed and be prepared to adapt your fantasy lineup as the season kicks off.
