New York Yankees owner insists talented crop of young players could be promoted to the majors as prospects continue to impress at spring training
The New York Yankees have the luxury of having three potential MLB-caliber starting shortstops on the books. The development of Oswald Peraza and Anthony Volpe means that manager Aaron Boone faces a difficult decision.
The Yankees hold three of MLB's top 100 prospects. Volpe is the highest ranked at No. 5. Peraza came in at No. 52 and impressed during his stint in the big leagues last season. Outfielder Jasson Dominguez is ranked No. 47.
Owner Hal Steinbrenner insists that up-and-coming prospects will be provided a chance in the big leagues as long as they prove their worth:
"Hal Steinbrenner on SS battle: 'We knew it was going to be exciting. It's just great to see all of our young kids playing well, including Dominguez. The reality is when we've got young prospects are ready and deserving of a chance, they're gonna get it, just like Judge did,'" Yankees beat reporter Bryan Hoch tweeted.
There is heavy pressure from the fanbase and the media to give youth a chance. Peraza, Volpe and Dominguez have all impressed during spring training.
Hal Steinbrenner on SS battle: “We knew it was going to be exciting. It's just great to see all of our young kids playing well, including Dominguez. The reality is when we've got young prospects are ready and deserving of a chance, they're gonna get it, just like Judge did.”
The New York Yankees have historically held players in the minors longer than other teams. The demands associated with playing in the Bronx mean younger players have been protected and brought up at a slower pace.
Steinbrenner gave the example of Aaron Judge as a player who was provided an opportunity early in his career. Judge made his MLB debut in 2016 at the age of 25.
The New York Yankees could turn to younger prospects in 2023 to address the team's issues
Along with Peraza, Volpe and Dominguez, the Yankees have two other young stars who are turning heads in spring training.
Andres Chaparro has a .333 batting average and a 1.197 OPS. He has already recorded four home runs, nine hits, five runs and 11 RBIs in just 27 at-bats.
Three Yankees prospects turning heads this spring (Updated):
• Anthony Volpe
(.320 AVG, 2 HR, 2 RBI)
• Jasson Dominguez
(.429 AVG, 4 HR, 9 RBI)
• Andres Chaparro
(.333 AVG, 3 HR, 8 RBI) https://t.co/GRn1v6g0mw
At 24 years old, Oswaldo Cabrera could be considered the veteran of the group. He already has 44 MLB games under his belt and was involved in the postseason last season. He is a versatile utility man who can play a variety of positions.
The Yankees have five players under 25 who are playing baseball at a high level. Cabrera (24), Chaparro (23), Peraza (22), Volpe (21) and Dominguez (20) all have a legitimate chance of starting in the big leagues next season.
The New York Yankees have also secured 2022 American League MVP Aaron Judge and All-Star pitcher Carlos Rodon on long-term deals. The future is bright for a New York Yankees franchise that has plenty of options going into 2023.