Bronx Bombers’ Final Push: Yankees’ Deadline Drive for Third Base Upgrade Signals a Desperate Attempt to Fortify Their Roster Before Opening Day
The Yankees appear motivated to upgrade at third base before Opening Day, targeting a right-handed bat to complement Oswaldo Cabrera, according to The Athletic’s Brendan Kuty. With DJ LeMahieu sidelined due to a calf injury , Cabrera and Oswald Peraza have taken the bulk of starts at third this spring, but neither has solidified the position.
Cabrera, a switch hitter, has been better from the left side of the plate, making a right-handed option a priority. Peraza was once considered a key part of the Yankees’ future but has struggled offensively this spring, hitting just .184 in 38 at-bats.
While the Yankees have valued his defense, they have yet to show true faith in him as a starting big-leaguer. Peraza is out of minor-league options, so if the Yankees don’t put him on the 26-man roster, they risk losing him on waivers.
The Yankees have Pablo Reyes, a veteran right-handed infielder, in camp as a non-roster invitee. Reyes has outperformed Peraza this spring, hitting .322 with a .805 OPS. His defensive versatility makes him a viable in-house option.
While the front office remains engaged in the market for an upgrade, Reyes could emerge as a fallback if no external moves are made.
If the Yankees find a partner to make a trade, it will likely be a last-minute addition rather than a splashy move. So, don’t look for Nolan Arenado in pinstripes on March 27.
The market for third basemen is limited, and with Opening Day fast approaching, the Yankees would likely be looking for a short-term fix rather than a significant commitment.
But if an upgrade doesn’t materialize, the Yankees are prepared to roll with Peraza, banking on his glove to hold down the hot corner until LeMahieu returns. It’s not an ideal scenario for a team expecting to contend, but the Yankees may have little choice with internal options dwindling.
