Can Oswald Peraza effectively replace Jazz Chisholm? Here’s what to expect from the Yankees prospect
Oswald Peraza appears to be making his way back up to the New York Yankees from Triple-A. Although Peraza will undoubtedly be excited to prove himself at the major league level this year, his expected promotion comes on the heels of a brutal UCL injury to the red-hot Jazz Chisholm Jr.
The most notable move that the Yankees made at the MLB trade deadline was the acquisition of Chisholm from the Miami Marlins in exchange for a trio of prospects. Following the move, Chisholm has been a monster at the plate, crushing seven home runs in 14 games before his injury. Needless to say, if he is promoted, Oswald Peraza will have some big shoes to fill.
The 24-year-old Peraza has been an intriguing prospect for some time for the New York Yankees. However, he has failed to prove himself in the MLB so far. Over 70 total games at the major league level, Peraza has posted a .216 batting average with three home runs, 16 RBIs and a .605 OPS.
Oswald Peraza has yet to make an appearance for the Yankees this season and has not been tearing the cover off the baseball in the minors this year. While he struggled early in the season, he has been better since the All-Star break, posting a .316 batting average, so there is some optimism that he is turning things around at the plate.
His defensive versatility could open the door for an extended run with the big club even if he struggles immediately after being promoted. There are many question marks around Peraza; however, he may have an opportunity to cement himself in the lineup if he can keep his hot streak rolling.
Playing time could be an issue for Oswald Peraza moving forward
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone will be desperate to replace the unfathomable level of production that he received from Jazz Chisholm Jr. following the trade. This could mean that if Peraza is given an opportunity, it could be short-lived if he struggles to perform right away.
Third base has been a question mark for the Yankees all season as the club has tried several players at the position. Boone could look to a platoon of players such as DJ LeMahieu, Jon Berti and Oswald Peraza, which would limit Peraza's playing time. If Oswald Peraza wants to lock up the role, he better perform right out of the gates.