New York Yankees Organizational Depth Breakdown: Second Base

We’ve already looked at the present and the future of the New York Yankees at third base and at shortstop. Now let’s take a look at second base. Going into last season, second base was the least of the Yankees’ issues with Robinson Cano at the position. Now, with Cano off to Seattle, it’s a part of the Yankees problems.

Brian Roberts is penciled in at the spot, but there is certainly some injury risk. Kelly Johnson could see some time at the position when he isn’t manning third. Recently acquired Dean Anna could get some time. Eduardo Nunez could too. Minor league free agents Scott Sizemore and Yangervis Solarte could also find some action there. Needless to say, like the rest of the infield, is in flux.

The minor leagues don’t have many options for the big league club at the higher levels. Corban Joseph is one, but he struggled last season. Jose Pirela and Reggie Corona may also see some time at Triple-A. Pirela was invited to big league training camp. Angelo Gumbs made it to High-A Charleston and will need more time there. Rob Refsnyder did well with Single-A Tampa and could find himself promoted. The prospect to watch, who’s a couple of years away is last year’s second round pick Gosuke Katoh. He had a .310/.402/.522 line in the Gulf Coast League and will certainly be moving up in 2014.

Free agent-wise, the only two guys left who play second are Alexi Casilla and Muenori Kawasaki. I don’t envision the Yankees signing either. The free agent class isn’t extremely deep. Ben Zobrist  could be if the Rays don’t pick up his $7.5 millon option. Rickie Weeks could be if his $11.5 million vesting option doesn’t come to fruition. Other than that, the top of the class would be Emilio Bonifacio.

For so many years, second base was never an issue. Now, it’s definitely a position in transition. Just like the rest of the infield.

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