The New York Yankees have been waiting for Clint Frazier to break out for quite some time, and his emergency during the 2020 season gave them the confidence to keep him on the roster for the foreseeable future. However, Frazier’s development poses a challenge for the Yankees, especially when it comes to Brett Gardner.
Gardner has already vocalized his desire to return in 2021. The Yankees have already declined his club option at $10 million for next season. They could retain him for one more year on a cheaper deal, which I imagine they will offer him. Gardner stated that he wants to play one final season in front of his friends and family, as a COVID-19 compromised 2020 campaign kept fans out of the stands.
Frazier, though, will likely cement himself as a starter on defense. He was selected as a finalist for a Gold Glove award this year. Prior to the start of the 2020 season, manager Aaron Boone wasn’t prepared to commit to him in the outfield.
“Difficult. Clint is ready to be an impact player in this league. There is no doubt in my mind,’’ Aaron Boone said, leaving Frazier behind after a solid camp. “Just unfortunately for him, he is blocked by a lot of good outfielders. Unfortunately, with options and our situation right now, Clint was the odd man out, but that doesn’t make it any easier because he has done everything, from a work standpoint, from a focus standpoint. It is hard when you are sending down a big-league player who you know is ready to produce.’’
The Yankees could see Frazier’s value and utilize it:
Ultimately, Frazier’s value has never been higher after a successful season this year. He finished with a .267 batting average, hitting eight home runs and 26 RBIs. He also stole three bases. The major downside was a strike out right at 27.5%, but he did walk 15.6%. He showed more patience at the plate compared to recent years. If he can cut back on the strikeouts and become more of a contact hitter, Clint could be an elite player in the outfield.
Reports have indicated the Yankees are looking into the acquisition of Francisco Lindor from the Cleveland Indians, and they will want starting level talent in return. Frazier could be used as a piece in the situation, but infielder Miguel Andujar fits the bill more efficiently.
I believe the Yankees are committed to “Red Thunder†in the outfield and will likely lock him into the left-field position with Giancarlo Stanton as the designated hitter.