While big names like Freddie Freeman cloud the headlines for the New York Yankees, they went a bit under the radar on Tuesday morning, signing former Mets and Pirates utilityman Phillip Evans.
Phillip Evans to Yankees. Former Met was with Pirates last year.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 15, 2022
General manager Brian Cashman set out to replace Tyler Wade, who was capable of playing in the infield and the outfield. Evans has similar capabilities at 29 years old, having experience at third base and multiple outfield spots.
Last season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Evans featured in 31 games, recording a .920 fielding percentage over 215.2 innings. He tallied four errors, showcasing inefficient defensive qualities.
Evans played 14 games for Pittsburgh at third base, recording a .967 fielding percentage over 101.2 innings.
Offensively, the four-year major league veteran posted a .206 average with five homers and 23 runs last season. He stole just one base, but walked 11. 3% of his at-bats, striking out 21.5%. This is an interesting depth signing who doesn’t even seem to replicate Wade’s production, let alone offer the baserunning he provided.
With Cashman taking a more cost efficient route in recent days, the Yankees may be gearing up for a big signing or saving the money for the future, notably Aaron Judge’s monster deal. However, Evans will compete for reserve reps, but it seems his main tasks will be at third base behind Josh Donaldson if need be.