“Bringing back a former New York Yankees All-Star could offer the team valuable depth this season.”
“After DJ LeMahieu left his first rehab game early due to a sore foot, the New York Yankees are facing ongoing depth concerns. Despite a strong start to the season with a 17-8 record, injuries have been a significant hurdle.
General Manager Brian Cashman acknowledged the lack of depth in the infield, particularly with LeMahieu, Jon Berti, and Oswald Peraza all dealing with injuries. Any additional setbacks could create serious challenges for the team.”
“General Manager Brian Cashman highlighted Anthony Rizzo’s heavy workload, pointing out that the team lacks a clear backup first baseman, according to Chris Kirschner of The Athletic.
‘I don’t feel like we have a (backup) first baseman right now on the roster,’ Cashman said.
In his article, Kirschner mentions that the Chicago Cubs recently designated first baseman Garrett Cooper for assignment. As a former Yankees player, Cooper could be a solution to the team’s depth issues, providing the backup first baseman they’re currently missing.”
33 years old, Cooper showed off improved power at the plate in 2023, hitting 17 home runs. He was named an All-Star in the 2022 season, slashing .261/.337/.415.
Kirschner believes New York could look to “gut it out” as they wait until Berti returns.
However, while it’s not the worst idea, adding a player of Cooper’s caliber to help them out and play every few days could be a benefit as the season progresses.
If the Yankees should’ve learned anything over the past few seasons, they’ll deal with injuries. The injuries are an issue this year and have been for the better part of the past five-plus seasons.
While they might not be interested in adding a first baseman yet, that can always change. Cashman and the rest of the front office understand the risk of running Rizzo out there every game and not having a backup, which could prompt a move.
