Report: Mike Tauchman’s roster spot with the Yankees in jeopardy

Mike Tauchman, New York Yankees
Apr 16, 2019; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees left fielder Mike Tauchman (39) watches his three-run home run against the Boston Red Sox during the sixth inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

With the signing of Brett Gardner, the New York Yankees have very good outfield depth going into the season. Clint Frazier and Gardy can play left field, Aaron Hicks is the starting center fielder, and Aaron Judge is one of the game’s premier right fielders.

In addition, designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton is more than capable of playing the field every once in a while, and Yankees’ skipper Aaron Boone recently indicated that he wants to give the slugger some time out there to keep his legs fresh and prepared.

However, if you hadn’t noticed, there is a noteworthy name missing in that outfield depth chart: Mike Tauchman. The lefty-hitting Yankees’ player is a very good fielder, but his bat just wasn’t there in 2020, and now, it appears he is in danger of not making the team.

Per Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Tauchman’s spot on the Yankees Opening Day roster could be in jeopardy.

What will the Yankees do with Tauchman?

With a triple slash of .242/.342/.305 with no homers, 14 RBI and six steals in 111 plate appearances, Tauchman has a lot to prove in spring training, especially on offense.

It was a steep downgrade from 2019, when he batted .277/.361/.504 with a 128 wRC+.

The fact that Gardner returned, plus fellow lefty Jay Bruce showcasing a power element that Tauchman simply lacks means that the latter could have a hard time proving to the Yankees that he can be included on the opening day roster.

Bruce can also provide a backup option at first base. Tauchman does have versatility, as he can cover all outfield spots well. But the offensive questions are enough to put his spot in jeopardy.

Tauchman could be traded, as he is out of minor league options. It’s unlikely that the Yankees release him, so they would probably want to test the market to see if he can fetch something.