New York Yankees Address Their Weakest Unit With Perfect Execution

Oct 6, 2018; Boston, MA, USA; New York Yankees second baseman Gleyber Torres (25) makes a play against the Boston Red Sox in game two of the 2018 ALDS playoff baseball series at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

At the beginning of the 2019 offseason, New York Yankees GM Brian Cashman made it known that he would approach the winter hot-stove months with caution. He wanted to stay away from pricey players and take a more cost-efficient, savvy route.

How did Yankees’ Cashman follow up those statements?

The Yankees’ pursuit of Manny Machado seemed like a market play, driving up his price-tag and quietly making back-end deals to secure quality veterans that could help a young team build upon the success they enjoyed in 2018. Players like Troy Tulowitzki and DJ LeMahieu fit the bill perfectly.

Both are stellar defensive players on the back-end of their careers. The value left is what the Yankees were trying to extract, as they signed Tulo to a one-year veteran minimum offer-sheet and LeMahieu to a two-year, $24 million deal.

The Blue Jays will be paying Tulo his $20 million while the Yankees reap the benefits. An extremely savvy move by Cashman, who has seemingly used the media to his advantage in the talks.

The Yankees improve their weakest unit:

The Bombers had one of the more questionable infield units in the league last season. Looking into the rankings for each position — Greg Bird and Neil Walker, who both spent time at first-base, ranked 21st in the MLB. Gleyber Torres at second-base ranked 23rd, and third-base ranked dead last with Miguel Andujar surrendering 15 errors. Upgrades were needed and Cashman addressed the deficiencies accordingly.

He added Tulo who has two Gold-Gloves and LeMahieu who has three. Two affordable signings added five total Gold Gloves to the infield with solid hitting abilities. DJ is only two seasons removed from winning the National League hitting title with a batting average of .348.

Another stroke of genius from the Yankees’ prized general manager.

How do you think Cashman has performed this offseason so far? Comment below!