The Giancarlo Stanton injury opened up space in the New York Yankees‘ roster for Clint Frazier, who was sent down to the team’s alternate training site a couple of weeks ago as the club wanted to shore up the pitching side of things.
This time around Frazier, at least according to Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone, figures to play an “important role” as the team solidifies its depth and looks for more outfield/designated hitter options.
He was actually called up before Tuesday’s game against the Atlanta Braves, but Boone preferred to line up lefty Mike Ford in the DH spot against the right-handed Touki Toussaint.
“I expect he’s going to play an important role for us,†Boone said to Bryan Hoch of MLB.com. “It was very difficult having to send him out [on July 26], based on his past performance, his talents, but also how he performed in the spring and the summer. He went down there the next day and got right to work. It’s been really good and consistent. I’m excited to have him back.â€
Will the Yankees give him semi-regular at-bats?
With Stanton out of the picture in the short-term, the New York Yankees may provide Frazier with the opportunity to settle in and earn semi-regular playing time. He will have to hit for it to happen, though, as we already saw what the team did with fellow defensive-challenged teammate Miguel Andujar: they sent him to the alternate site because he wasn’t hitting.
“Even last year, it was that ‘next man up’ mentality and it seemed like not a beat was missed,†Ford said. “That’s kind of just everyone feeding off each other. I think [Frazier] will do a great job when he’s in there.â€
Since debuting in 2017, Frazier has a .254/.308/.463 line with 16 homers in 429 plate appearances.
“Everyone knows Clint and what he can do with a bat and with the glove,†Ford said. “I love playing alongside him. He’s an electric player that has pop, speed, hit ability and obviously great hands at the plate. I think he brings a lot.â€