New York Yankees' Oswaldo Cabrera aiming for starting left fielder spot in 2023
Oswaldo Cabrera's jovial personality and joy for the game makes him easy to like. In August last year, Cabrera was promoted to the big leagues after making a name for himself in the minors. He spoke about his excitement at being called up and breaking down in tears when he called his family to tell them the news.
It has been less than six months since the Venezuelan made his MLB debut. Over that period, Cabrera has not only cemented his place on the 40-man roster, he has a realistic chance of starting for the New York Yankees in 2023.
The 23-year-old has been working hard on his game in the offseason in the hopes of becoming a permanent fixture in the lineup.
"I’m working for any opportunity," said Cabrera.
Per a recent article in the New York Post, Cabrera has a shot at starting in the outfield for the Yankees. The left fielder position is yet to be finalized with Aaron Hicks, Estevan Florial and Cabrera all in the running.
@BRWalkoffYankees rookie Oswaldo Cabrera just DESTROYED this go-ahead homer in Cleveland 💪 @BRWalkoff https://t.co/B54gBZcQ7u
"Yankees rookie Oswaldo Cabrera just DESTROYED this go-ahead homer in Cleveland BRWalkoff" - Bleacher Report
While the outfield seems like the most likely spot for Cabrera, he is open to any and all opportunities:
"I’m working at left field. I’m working at shortstop, third base, second base, right field, second base, wherever."
Along with being a switch-hitter, Cabrera is also supremely versatile. The utility man is capable of playing in a variety of positions. Last season, he was used as a shortstop, third baseman, second baseman and first baseman as well as in the outfield.
Oswaldo Cabrera will look to cement his place as a starter for the Yankees after a strong 2022 season
Since going 0-4 on his debut against the Tampa Bay Rays, Cabrea has settled in well in the Bronx. Over 44 regular season games, he finished with a solid .247/.312/.429 slash line. He has recorded six home runs, 19 RBIs and three stolen bases.
Oswaldo Cabrera is set to make his MLB debut tonight. @M_Marakovits caught up with the switch-hitting prospect during her Clubhouse Report. #YANKSonYES https://t.co/fSGlNylAMQ
"Oswaldo Cabrera is set to make his MLB debut tonight. @M_Marakovits caught up with the switch-hitting prospect during her Clubhouse Report. #YANKSonYES" - YES Network
Although Cabrera had difficulty in the playoffs, he did hit a big home run against the Cleveland Guardians in game three of the American League Division Series. His eight postseason games will provide the youngster with invaluable experience in the future.
The New York Yankees face some tough questions when it comes to left field and shortstop. Oswaldo Cabrera can play both positions. He offers Aaron Boone a switch-hitter that can fill in at numerous positions. After a strong 2022 season, Cabrera will look to establish himself as a starter in 2023.