The New York Yankees simply can’t escape the injury bug, whether it be a result of soft tissue issues or COVID-19. Recently, both DJ LeMahieu and Luis Cessa tested positive for the virus, putting them in a 10 day injured list situation.
Both players will miss ample training time, which will hurt their progression toward Opening Day. The expectation is that both can return in the coming weeks, but with the start of the season quickly approaching, there’s a good chance neither will be available.
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Here are two New York Yankees players that could replace DJ LeMahieu at second base for the time being:
1.) Tyler Wade
Wade is a solid young player who has utility man services to offer. He is the fastest base runner on the team and could be utilized in that way in an extra-inning scenario where both teams start with a player on second base.
While the Yankees have played home run baseball in regular seasons, this is no regular situation. A condensed 60-game campaign will force the Yankees to be more strategic and tactical in their approach.
Wade believes playing small ball will be a bigger facet in their game, as he stated:
“I feel like small ball is going to be a big facet in our game,’’ said Tyler Wade.
“I’m getting my reps all over the infield, the outfield,’’ he said when asked about his value as a utility man. “Wherever they need me.’’
Boone was also confident in his abilities, stating:
“We’ve long felt that Tyler could be that really, really valuable super utility (player).”
At 25 years old, he is the first choice pinch-runner, and with LeMahieu expected to miss time as he quarantines with the virus, Wade could supplement his loss at second base. While his offense isn’t elite or even comparable to the DJ’s, he can fill the void efficiently for now.
In 2019, Wade posted a .245 batting average with two homers and 11 RBIs over 94 at-bats. His lack of a sample size isn’t motivating, but he has been grinding away to receive an opportunity finally.
2.) Thairo Estrada
Estrada is another player the Yankees could consider to supplement the loss of LeMahieu. Last season, Estrada played 17 games at second base, committing zero errors and turning six double plays. He actually played quite well at the position and could be deserving of an opportunity over Wade. He hit a home run in an inter-squad exhibition game Thursday night off of Tyler Lyons.
https://twitter.com/Yankeelibrarian/status/1281378374426996736
The Yankee has actually hit two homers during intra-squad games, showing off his offensive capabilities. Over 65 at-bats in his first year last season, he hit .250, three homers, and 12 RBIs. He showed more quality over Wade, and I believe he is the better option.