We are in an atypical position, as we are currently seeing a version the MLB’s spring training being played in summertime. Baseball has referred to it as “summer camp.” And since it is an atypical moment, we also may have an atypical star in the New York Yankees.
Thairo Estrada has always flashed his good leather in the infield’s middle positions, shortstop and second base. He is, however, adding an offense element to his game that will also make him a dangerous hitter, still developing game power to go with his contact ability, good wheels and sound defense.
He was the star of the New York Yankees’ intrasquad games, with three home runs, doubles, singles and solid contact in general. And, against the New York Mets at Citi Field on Saturday, the 24-year-old had an RBI single in the ninth inning to help contribute in his team’s 9-3 win.
Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone himself has proclaimed Estrada as the “MVP of Summer Camp.”
The Yankees may have an opening for him
That is a positive development for him, as DJ LeMahieu, the Yankees’ second baseman. is uncertain to be ready for the start of the season after reporting to camp just a couple of days ago. Estrada, Tyler Wade and Matt Duffy are candidates to replace him for a few days if he is unable to occupy his position from the go.
“Versatility is certainly one of the things that’s very appealing about Thairo,†Boone said, noting Estrada’s ability to play three infield positions and the outfield. “He did a good job with the bat last year. I feel like he’s even better this year, and I just love the makeup of the person. There’s a lot of things that Thairo brings to the table, and his performance has been outstanding. Add all those things up and he’s very much in play.â€
Estrada slashed .266/.313/.452 and hit eight home runs in 60 games at Triple A in 2019, and in 35 games with the Yankees he hit .250/.294/.438 with three homers and four thefts. After years of sub-.400 slugging percentages in the minors, he has been working on developing power, and it has paid off.