Quotes and Reactions from the Yankees Town Hall Meeting

Gleyber Torres and Starlin Castro

Immediately after learning that Castro was involved in this prospect lollapalooza, I wondered aloud why he was included. Not because I don’t find him worthy — quite the contrary, I feel Castro’s ability to play multiple infield positions will greatly help the Yankees eventually decide which players are dealt, and which ones make up future iterations of the team (Didi Gregorius, Jorge Mateo, Miguel Andujar, etc.).

At times, though, Castro gets overlooked because he is a streaky hitter who can fall prey to lackadaisical play in the infield. Perhaps Torres’ presence will motivate him towards a change in philosophy.

Come to find out that the Yankees newly minted gem of a shortstop, Torres, has a relationship with Castro — albeit a short one, from their days together in the Cubs organization.

Following a workout together in the Bronx on Tuesday, Castro had this to say about Baseball America’s top Yankees prospect:

"“He listens. I see him hitting and he has a really good swing.”"

Through a translator, Torres said, “It was exciting to get to see Yankee Stadium in real life.” Though many within baseball circles expect the 20-year-old Arizona Fall league MVP to propel his way through the Minor League system rather quickly, much the way Carlos Correa and Corey Seager did for this respective clubs, Torres is solely focused on taking one day at a time — which will likely begin this season at Double-A Trenton.

"“There’s no pressure at all. There’s a lot of good rumors out there, but the focus is on keep working hard and the future.”"

Torres reiterated that he’s excited to once again work with special instructor Alex Rodriguez, calling him a “great guy.”

As for Castro, who seemed much more comfortable at the plate without the weight of being the captain of an infield (shortstop is traditionally thought of as so) — he seems to have no qualms about possibly shifting his position again if it is in the best interests of the Yankees.

"“They haven’t talked to me about that yet. I’ll do whatever they want me to do. I just want to help the team win. Whatever I can do to help, I’m in.”"