As spring training began, the New York Yankees appeared to boast one of baseball’s top rosters. However, with Opening Day just weeks away, that perception is shifting as early injuries threaten to challenge their depth.
The team has been hit hard by injuries during spring training, with multiple key contributors expected to miss the start of the season. Starting pitchers Luis Gil and Gerrit Cole are grappling with a strained lat and elbow troubles, respectively. Designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton is also nursing elbow issues that might keep him out for the entire year if surgery becomes necessary.
The pitching staff has taken additional hits, with JT Brubaker, Scott Effross, and Jake Cousins all sidelined by spring injuries. Jonathan Loaisiga, another arm, won’t be ready for the season’s opening either. Meanwhile, projected starting third baseman DJ LeMahieu is battling a calf injury that will land him on the injured list to kick off the year.
These setbacks have exposed numerous roster gaps before the team could even address other preexisting weaknesses from the start of camp. One area of focus during spring was the catcher position. Austin Wells is set as the starter, but the backup role remains up in the air following Jose Trevino’s offseason trade to the Cincinnati Reds.
Currently, non-roster invitee Alex Jackson—acquired in the Trevino deal—is slated to back up Wells. J.C. Escarra and Rafael Flores, also in the mix, are likely headed for the top of the Triple-A depth chart. Should none of these options prove dependable, the Yankees might turn to the trade market for a solid backup.
Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer has flagged Minnesota Twins catcher Christian Vazquez as a potential target. Rymer notes that the Twins have openly shopped Vazquez during the offseason, and the Yankees could be a fit. Vazquez last posted positive offensive value (oWAR) in 2022 with the Boston Red Sox, per Baseball-Reference, but his defensive skills remain a strength. He’s recorded a positive dWAR every year of his MLB career, hitting at least 0.4 in each of the last four seasons.
Beyond his catching prowess, Vazquez brings versatility that could appeal to manager Aaron Boone. With experience at first, second, and third base in the majors, he offers a valuable utility option off the bench. For a Yankees team facing a rash of injuries and needing solutions across the roster, acquiring Vazquez could address multiple needs with one move.
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