The New York Yankees decided to option outfielder Clint Frazier to their alternate training site in their latest roster move. Right-handed reliever Ben Heller was also optioned. The club will recall righties Nick Nelson and Brooks Kriske to the active roster.
The reasoning behind the moves was that the bullpen had to pitch seven innings because starter James Paxton could only complete a frame against the Washington Nationals on Saturday night. The Yankees need fresh arms in their staff since all the “mop up” guys, namely Jonathan Holder, David Hale, Ben Heller and Luis Avilan, saw action yesterday.
Showing diminished velocity in comparison to last season, Paxton threw 1+ innings and conceded five hits and three earned runs. He handed out one free pass and struck out one batter. The Yankees’ universe is worried about his velo, as he cracked over 91 mph on average last night. He was at more than 94 mph last year.
Frazier didn’t see the field during the New York Yankees’ first two games in the nation’s capital city. As of now, he is blocked by the team’s excess of outfielders, including starters Brett Gardner, Aaron Hicks and Aaron Judge. His path to at-bats from the designated hitter spot is also blocked by Giancarlo Stanton and his crazy-good start of the season.
Looking for an extended opportunity from the Yankees
The 25-year old Frazier is still looking for that extended opportunity with the Yankees. In the limited at-bats he has received during his career, he has been good, but not great at the plate, having a .254/.308/.463 line in 429 plate appearances. His defensive issues have played a role in the lack of playing time he has received.
Frazier had looked very good during summer camp, even blasting a home run that became famous nationwide because he did it while wearing a mask. For now, the talented outfielder will have to wait a few days for his next chance.