Yankees Neil Walker replaces Torreyes as ‘super’ utility infielder

The Yankees demoted Ronald Torreyes to Triple-A to have the chance to finally see what Greg Bird’s long-awaited left-handed bat brings to the Bronx.

Yankees GM Brian Cashman has made his decision. Greg Bird and Tyler Austin will platoon and compete for the starting job at first base while switch-hitting Neil Walker will take over as the team’s main super utility infielder.

The Bombers have given Aaron Boone more options adding balance to a right-handed hitting dominated lineup by keeping Walker who is a switch-hitter that hits far better from the left side of the plate.

The Yankees have now created one of the most versatile infields in baseball. Walker can play first, second, and third base and Gleyber Torres can move over to shortstop from second base when needed. Andujar can play third and first as well.

The club might actually have improved defensively. Both Bird and Austin are solid defensive options at first base, but Walker is an outstanding infielder wherever he plants his feet.

Walker’s bat has come alive in May after joining the club very late into spring training. He brings added power over Torreyes, although the Yanks have seen a tiny sample, in averaging 15+ HR’s per full season in the bigs.

The Yanks need to acquire starting pitching in the trade market may have also had an impact on the Torreyes decision. He already has Brandon Drury at Triple-A waiting for his fate.

Cashman needs to showcase the talent if he wants to trade for a quality starting pitcher. Bird and Austin might be the subject of inquiries from other MLB clubs with starting pitchers on the Yankees radar.

“Clubhouse mojo” has changed with Torreyes exile

The Yankees clubhouse chemistry is a very important element in the team’s success on the field. Did Cashman make a serious mistake with his trying to “fix what isn’t broke?”

Reactions to Toe’s demotion were very strong on social media.

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 Michael Kay tweeted on Torreyes:

"Yankees send down Ronald Torreyes to make room for Greg Bird. I did not see that coming. Will be interesting to see if there is such a thing as clubhouse chemistry because “Toe” is beloved in that room."

Mike Francesa had a strong reaction as well:

"I was dead wrong. Never thought Yanks would send Torreyes down. He has been too good and too valuable. I know they are showcasing Austin and concerned about Bird. But they couldn’t get by with 12 pitchers? I think this is a bad and unfair move."

Next: Ohtani backs out of dream matchup against Tanaka

Brian Cashman is well aware of the clubhouse effect and is relying on manager Aaron Boone to keep things smooth and the winning to continue while the front office figures out what the final roster configuration should be to help the Yankees win title No. 28.