Bader's Injury Sucks, But Opportunity Knocks For Others

Spring training has not been kind to the Yankees, so adding Harrison Bader to an already noticeable list of injured players is hard to stomach. The injury bug didn’t even wait until the regular season to make its unwelcome appearance, so now what?

I hope Bader is back and ready to go in six weeks. That minimizes missed time during the regular season and also minimizes time in the outfield for some less desirable options like Aaron Hicks. I think we’ve all seen enough of Hicks and we are ready for some new blood.

So that brings me to the exciting spring we’ve been watching from guys like Anthony Volpe and Oswaldo Cabrera. I think both guys have made it hard for the Yankees not to put them on the roster. Volpe had a home run against the Red Sox this weekend and Cabrera has literally played everywhere and not only embraced the idea of being a utility man, but he has thrived. He has proven he can handle centerfield even though that was never his focus in his career.

So does Bader’s injury give both guys the opportunity to make the roster once the regular season starts? All signs point to “yes” for Cabrera, especially. Both guys have earned it. They bring the excitement, potential and productivity that guys like Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Hicks just don’t have anymore and just create log jams. The argument that guys like Hicks and IKF have the experience just don’t do enough for me anymore. If Volpe doesn’t start the season in the Bronx, it won’t be long until we do see him, especially if we can trade IKF. Fingers crossed.

Bader’s absence could also lead to opportunities for other outlier candidates like former top prospect Estevan Florial or non-roster invitees Rafael Ortega and/or Willie Calhoun. While these guys are less likely, it’s not impossible. Florial is out of minor-league options so he can’t be sent down without being exposed to waivers. The Yankees may not want to take that chance in the beginning of the season. Also worth noting, Ortega is already a serviceable center fielder so he may be an easier stop gap than we realize.

We also can’t forget that Aaron Judge can fill in at center field also. It’s nice to have options for sure, but it will be even nicer to get Bader back to game action. Rest up and get back soon, Bader.

Oh and until then – can we stop with the growing injury list? Sheesh!