Former New York Yankees outfielder Clint Frazier is happy he is no longer playing for the Bombers. The outfielder couldn’t establish himself in the Bronx during his five-year tenure, for a myriad of reasons that included poor performance, injuries, defensive issues, and more.
The Yankees designated him for assignment when they needed roster spots to protect prospects from the Rule 5 Draft, then released him. He was signed by the Chicago Cubs on a one-year contract, worth around $1.5 million, and he will receive ample opportunities to earn regular or semi-regular playing time.
On Tuesday, on a Twitter exchange with some fans, he was saying how happy he is to get this renewed opportunity. One user wrote that he was glad Frazier is no longer with the Yankees, to which the outfielder replied “so am I†with several laughing emojis.
Both he and the Yankees needed to move on
There are two ways of viewing Frazier’s stint with the Yankees. One of them is that he had ample chances of securing a role, and failed every time but 2020. The other way is that the Yankees mishandled him in his early years.
Either way, blaming the kid for wanting a fresh start in a new organization is pointless. It’s still somewhat surprising to see him admit it publicly, but he does deserve a renewed chance, and the Yankees weren’t going to be able to give it to him.
“I’m so excited to join the Cubs — one of the biggest reasons I chose to come here was the fan base and how electric you guys can be towards your players. I’ll be just as electric for you guys too. here’s to leaving my razor at home,†he wrote, in a clear reference at the Yankees’ no facial hair policy.
Frazier, who had a .239/.327/.434 line with a 105 wRC+ with the Yankees, will have to compete with Rafael Ortega, Jason Heyward, Ian Happ, Harold Ramirez, and Michael Hermosillo for playing time in Chicago.