Yankees facing critical decisions as August baseball begins

Cementing the infield

When the Yankees acquired Todd Frazier from the White Sox, everything changed. Chase Headley, the veteran who can see the trees through the forest, reportedly went to Girardi telling him he was willing to do anything to help the team.

Girardi didn’t hesitate, telling Headley he was going to play at first base with Frazier manning third. Headley, being Headley, marched out there and since has provided the team with a vision that he could be the one the Yankees have been looking for all season long.

More from Yanks Go Yard

• Should Yankees toss short-term extension at Harrison Bader before 2023?
• Yankees chose worst possible player to ring in New Year on 2023 team calendar
• Yankees State of the Farm System Review: Josh Breaux
• Yankees make upside play, sign former Rangers top prospect outfielder
• MLB insider claims favorite emerging in Bryan Reynolds rumors (not Yankees)

As the ninth first baseman for the team this year, Headley is providing solid defense at first, at the same time his bat is waking up giving the Yankees offense a boost. He’s no Don Mattingly, for sure. But he fills a gap, and that’s what the Yankees needed most.

Meanwhile, Todd Frazier is almost giddy just to be wearing the Pinstripes. He’s come on board with nary a hiccup, sees the energy in the clubhouse, and wants to be a part of the party come October.

Don’t expect any formal announcement from the Yankees. Just watch the posted lineups every day to see the direction they are heading toward.

With Headley at first, Starlin Castro, when he returns at second, Didi Gregorius at shortstop, and Frazier at third, the Yankees can cement their infield moving toward the playoffs.

Next: No need to change horses midstream

As always, I invite you to share your thoughts and comments about this story or anything Yankees on the Yanks Go Yard Facebook page.