The New York Yankees took on the Pittsburgh Pirates in the first spring training game of the off-season Friday afternoon. The Yankees took a 2–0 lead in the first inning thanks to a bit of offensive work from newly acquired infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa.
Kiner-Falefa was recently acquired from the Minnesota Twins in a blockbuster trade involving Gary Sanchez and Gio Urshela. The Yankees also gained Josh Donaldson and Ben Rortvedt in the process. The former Texas Rangers infielder is expected to take over the shortstop position until young prospect Anthony Volpe is ready to make the transition to the bigs.
In Friday’s game, Kiner-Falefa smashed a double to left field in the first inning, recording a 102.6 mph velocity off the bat.
It seems as if the Yankees already have Kiner-Falefa featuring a new stance to generate more power, which should aid in his growth significantly. Last season with the Rangers, Kiner-Falefa hit .271 with eight homers and 53 RBIs. His contact hitting will undoubtedly be a huge benefit for the Yankees, a category they desperately needed more support in.
Kiner-Falefa off to a GREAT start ??
— Fireside Yankees (@FiresideYankees) March 18, 2022