Yankees: Clint Frazier is coming for Brett Gardner’s job

Following a lengthy recovery from post-concussion symptoms that limited him to just 54 games in 2018, Clint Frazier is more motivated than ever to claim left-field for the Yankees.

Although camp doesn’t officially open for another six days, a number of hungry, young Yankees were already in Tampa, FLA taking part in pre-Spring Training.

On Wednesday, Clint Frazier, Greg Bird, Luke Voit and Gleyber Torres took to the field for some light defensive work and batting practice.

With each player, out to prove their worth in 2019 (admittedly, Torres should feel the least amount of pressure of the bunch), Frazier looked especially ahead of schedule.

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According to the AP, Frazier, who played in only 15 major league games last season due to a crowded roster and eventual battle with post-concussion symptoms, was officially cleared to resume baseball activities three weeks ago.

The 2017 No. 16 prospect per Baseball Prospectus, reportedly tracked fly balls along the warning track before blasting eight home runs over the left field wall in 35 swings.

“It’s an exciting feeling,” the 24-year-old New York Yankees outfielder said Wednesday after his first pre-spring training workout. “I’m ready to get out there. I wish games started tomorrow. It’s been a long road. I’m just happy to be here and ready to go out there and make up for the time that I’ve lost.”

Frazier suited up for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre 48 times last season and absolutely raked.

Across 216 plate appearances, the 2013 fifth overall draft pick slashed .311/.389/.574 with 38 runs scored, 14 doubles, three triples, 10 home runs and 21 RBIs.

With the overall skill set and mentality to succeed in New York, Frazier will need to have an electric spring to thrust himself into the 25-man conversation.

Due to 12-year veteran Brett Gardner re-signing with the club for one-year, $7.5 million; Giancarlo Stanton’s ability to play left field, the looming chance that Jacoby Ellsbury is deemed healthy enough to resume his career and the resurgent speculation of Bryce Harper signing a short-term deal, Red Thunder could have an uphill climb on his hands.

However, as Frazier recently told Coley Harvey of ESPN, he knows the organization believes in him and is eager to prove he belongs in the Bronx.

“I have earned my pinstripes, man. I’ve gone through enough in a short period of time, and I’m ready to give it a full season in a Yankees uniform — not a [Triple-A] RailRiders uniform,” Frazier said.“I’m going to win that job,” Frazier said. “I’m going to win because I know that I can.”