New York Yankees: Where does Cameron Maybin fit in after Aaron Judge returns?

New York Yankees, Cameron Maybin
Jun 17, 2019; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees left fielder Cameron Maybin (38) celebrates in the dugout after hitting a home run against the Tampa Bay Rays in the fifth inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees are faced with the best, worst decision possible. They have too much talent to choose from. Outfielder Cameron Maybin has been on fire as of late, enjoying a four-game home run streak. With slugger Aaron Judge returning on Friday, it poses a difficult decision for the Yankees.

How will the New York Yankees utilize Aaron Judge when he returns?

There’s no question Judge will be inserted directly into the lineup, but in what capacity is my primary question. Maybin is hitting .315 on the year with five homers and 12 RBIs. Additionally, he’s a serious threat on the basis, which helps in run support and getting runners in scoring position.

However, Judge’s return will ultimately lead to Maybin being designated for assignment. But it seems as if the surprisingly productive player is at peace with the reality of his position:

“It’s a business and things happen,” Maybin stated on Tuesday. “I can’t control what decisions are made. What I control is each and every day I’m going to come out and give it everything like it’s my last game. I always talk about controlling the controllables … my effort, my energy. Control what you can control and then let the chips fall where they may.”

He handled the question far better than Clint Frazier did, as he cleared up his facebook of pictures and, to be quite frank, acted like a child that was unaware of the business side of baseball. In all likelihood, he would have likely been brought back up at some point, but his demeanor screams trade-bait at this point.

The Pinstripes have changed Maybin:

Putting on the Yankees pinstripes has been the catalyst for success this season. Reserve players that have seldom seen success have emerged as legitimate starters. Maybin, Gio Urshela, Luke Voit…unexpected players have risen to the occasion.

“People say wearing the pinstripes isn’t for everybody, but I think it is for guys that can handle some ups and downs. I feel my personality and what I’m able to bring as a nice piece to the puzzle makes me a good fit,” Maybin stated.

The Yankees will likely keep the veteran outfielder over Frazier due to his attitude and acceptance of his role with the Bombers. His influence has been great and he will likely prove to be an impactful option once again as the season progresses.