Aaron Boone, heading into his seventh season with the Yankees, expressed his excitement and hope for the upcoming season during a news conference. Despite a few key players starting the season on the injured list, Boone believes the team is prepared. He emphasized that the team’s expectations remain high, especially after a disappointing previous season. Boone highlighted the team’s edge, focus, and commitment as they prepare for the new season.
To address the absence of DJ LeMahieu, the Yankees acquired infielder Jon Berti from the Miami Marlins in a three-team trade. Boone is enthusiastic about Berti’s addition to the team, praising his versatility and skills as a hitter. Berti is expected to play a significant role in the infield, providing depth and flexibility to the lineup and serving as a valuable utility player. Boone expressed confidence in Berti’s ability to contribute to the team, whether in an everyday role or as a utility player.
Boone acknowledged that infield depth was a concern before the trade for Berti, but he now feels that the team’s depth and bench have improved with Berti’s addition. Until LeMahieu returns, Oswaldo Cabrera will serve as the backup first baseman. Boone dismissed the idea of moving Aaron Judge to first base in emergencies but acknowledged that baseball is unpredictable. The batting order for Opening Day includes Gleyber Torres leading off, with Juan Soto and Judge behind him, and Jose Trevino behind the plate.
The status of DJ LeMahieu remains uncertain, with Boone hoping for a speedy recovery but unsure of the timetable. LeMahieu will undergo more testing to assess his injury, with the team monitoring his progress closely. Despite initial hopes for LeMahieu’s return before the start of the season, his injury prevented him from playing. Boone emphasized that LeMahieu’s health and recovery are the top priorities for the team, with the hope that he will be back on the field soon.
Juan Soto, a significant offseason addition, showed promise during spring training, despite some struggles at the plate. Boone believes Soto’s performance during the spring will not affect his regular-season performance negatively, as hitters of his caliber often have short lulls in performance. Boone expressed confidence in Soto’s readiness for the season, stating that he is mentally and physically prepared to excel on the field. Boone looks forward to seeing Soto’s impact on the team during the regular season.
While Gerrit Cole will be starting the season on the injured list, he is with the team in Houston, providing veteran leadership and guidance to his teammates. Boone praised Cole’s involvement in team meetings and his commitment to supporting his fellow pitchers and teammates. Despite his absence on the field, Cole remains actively involved in the team’s preparations and game strategies. The Yankees also faced injury setbacks with Jorbit Vivas and Oscar Gonzalez sustaining orbital fractures, with no definitive timetable for their return to the field.
