The Yankees, Just Like That, Are Fun Again – Even In Spring Training

In the past 30 plus years following the Yankees, I can’t remember spring training games being as much fun as they are now.

The Yankees roster, for the most part, was set before they even got to Tampa. The only competition was for maybe a back-up job. Spring training was more or less a formality.

Things have changed though since last year’s trading deadline. Finally, the Yankees have an abundance of young talent ready to go. There are jobs available. Not just for utility players either. We’re talking starting positions and spots in the starting rotation. This is exciting, for me at least.

Often it ‘s hard to gauge anything from a handful of exhibition games. Some players are notoriously slow starters. Then there are veterans who are only getting themselves into playing shape. There is another group of players, the Baby Bombers, and they’re out to prove they belong in the big leagues.

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This all adds to the fun factor of spring training 2017. Many of us have a favorite prospect or two or seven. Seeing some in their first major league camp is a site to behold. Clint Frazier has looked great so far. Even after a base-running gaffe in the first game, he seemed to have a sense of humor about it. You could see he and third base coach Joe Espada making fun of the play, once he was safe, that is.

Gleyber Torres is another, who while slated to start in Double-A Trenton, is turning heads. His play so far has some wondering if perhaps we may see him in the Bronx before this season is over. While Torres is only 20 years old, he appears wise beyond his years in the baseball sense.

Third base prospect Miguel Andujar is another good looking young prospect. While Andujar is most likely ticketed for triple-A Scranton, he’s got the attention of Alex Rodriguez. A-Rod likes what he sees so far, and the Yankees front office takes his evaluations seriously.

The Yankees Have That Team Chemistry Going

What impressed the most is the team chemistry. There’s still a ways to go before the final roster is set. The young prospects all seem to be gelling, coming together. These kids are having fun, and you can see it on the field. It’s a contagious energy that is as positive as it is intense.

What does this all mean for the Bronx Bombers? Maybe nothing. Spring training is funny that way. Last year Gary Sanchez was sent down to triple-A after getting only two hits in the Grapefruit League. Other players from the past have had a great spring, and it didn’t translate to the regular season.

This time, though, I have a feeling it’ll be different. There are just so many talented players in the organization.

Next: You Need To Get Out To See This Team

While the Yankees may not be World Series contenders yet, the decision to go with youth will likely pay dividends sooner than later. Until then, we can all have fun watching them develop and have a good time themselves.