Alfonso Soriano’s Spring Absence

Sep 27, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; New York Yankees left fielder

(12) runs the bases before his hit was ruled a ground rule double against the Houston Astrosduring the sixth inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit:

-USA TODAY Sports

With Spring Training now in full swing, most of the projected players in the opening day action has seen playing time for the Yankees. Unfortunately, there has been one player who has not seen the field in Tampa. That player is left fielder/designated hitter Alfonso Soriano.

This spring, Soriano has dealt with flu symptoms, but now has had different issues that are keeping him from seeing game action. Soriano is now dealing with fatigue and dizziness, according to Chad Jennings of the LoHud Yankees blog.

Manager Joe Girardi has stated that he hopes to get Soriano in the lineup sometimes this week. This isn’t something to be that concerned about considering that Soriano is a regular and just needs to get some at-bats to be ready for April 1^st in Houston.

As far as this season goes, Soriano could be a X-Factor for the Yankees’ lineup in his final season before retirement. After being traded to the Yankees last July, Soriano went on a torrid home run pace, hitting 17 homers in 58 games. 

According to MLB Depth Charts, Soriano is projected to hit 6^th in the lineup and play primarily at the designated hitter spot. He will see sometime in left field, but the Yankees will want to put Brett Gardner‘s speed at that position.  After 34 home runs a season ago, you would think he could hit 25-30 home runs this season. Plus, he will get better pitches to hit if he is hitting behind a power threat like Brian McCann. Don’t be alarmed about Soriano’s absence so far this spring, but hopefully he can get his swings back in the batter’s box real soon for the Bronx Bombers.