The New York Yankees’ third base dilemma has turn out to be ugly in current weeks. With Oswaldo Cabrera out for the season, the Yankees are left with a medley of unreliable choices to select from. Of all of the names on this record (Jorbit Vivas, Pablo Reyes, Oswald Peraza and DJ LeMahieu), none of them personal a batting common over .192, and every endure with dwindling energy potential.
Realizing this might be the deadly flaw of his otherwise-powerful workforce, Yankees GM Brian Cashman instructed MLB Community Radio (h/t NJ.com) about his intentions to proceed his seek for an appropriate right-handed-hitting infielder. That endeavor had been considered one of his priorities over the offseason, but it surely was seemingly shelved whereas the workforce experimented with platooning Cabrera and Peraza. The marketplace for an affect third baseman isn’t precisely brimming with alternative, however there may be one glowing choice who has emerged in current days who the Yankees ought to strongly think about pursuing.
Miami Marlins third baseman Connor Norby was the Orioles’ No. 7 prospect as not too long ago as final yr. In his 2024 rookie marketing campaign, Norby hit .236 with 9 house runs in 176 at-bats for the O’s and Marlins, displaying some promising energy potential. This season, his energy has wavered after getting back from harm, however he’s starting to excel as a contact hitter. Norby is slashing .276/.319/.425 with three house runs in 127 at-bats since his return. Nonetheless, extra not too long ago, Norby has proven indicators of turning a nook.
Regardless of an 0-for-4 recreation on Wednesday (a recreation during which he took a pitch to the head however by no means exited till the victory was sealed), Norby continues to be hitting .321 with an on-base share of .387 during the last seven video games (.315 AVG with .351 OBP during the last 15). That is shaping as much as be a breakout season for Norby, which might reward the Yankees properly in the event that they resolve to pursue him.
The Marlins, who as soon as once more sit on the backside of the NL East, will undoubtedly be sellers on the commerce deadline. Norby, who combines plus energy and distinctive contact-hitting expertise with ample pace, will seemingly obtain loads of consideration if he continues on his present trajectory. As issues stand, Norby would signify an unlimited enchancment over the Yankees’ present choices.
