new york yankees defender could be the
Peraza entered camp battling for a bench spot, but any kind of injury would put in question his ability to be ready by the March 28 opener.
“I know Opening Day is coming, but again, I want to wait to hear from the doctor to know what I have,” Peraza said.
Peraza, who has a minor league option remaining, was originally scratched from a Feb. 27 game with shoulder tightness.
A few days later, Boone described it as Peraza’s feeling some “pinching” in his shoulder, but the 23-year-old returned to game action Tuesday.
Peraza played back-to-back games but then came in Thursday reporting more discomfort, with the high-level defender telling Boone he “felt like he really couldn’t rip it across the diamond.”
If Peraza is not available to them, the Yankees will need to determine a backup shortstop to carry on their roster.
Utilityman Oswaldo Cabrera can play the position, but the Yankees may need him to bounce around the field if he makes the roster. Non-roster invitee Kevin Smith, who has big league experience, would appear to be the leading candidate to serve as the backup shortstop.
The Yankees could also look to swing a trade or waiver claim later this month for a backup shortstop who isn’t going to make a roster elsewhere.
Just still working,” Stroman said. “The priority now is getting everything down mechanics-wise, stuff-wise, body. There’s definitely a priority on health to build these innings and stay healthy throughout spring training and going into the year feeling good.”
