Yanks Go Yard
FanSided

Ten Yankees set to benefit from potential MLB roster expansion

By Ryan Doyle

JUPITER, FLORIDA - MARCH 11: Mike Ford #72 of the New York Yankees at bat against the Miami Marlins during a Grapefruit League spring training at Roger Dean Stadium on March 11, 2020 in Jupiter, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
JUPITER, FLORIDA - MARCH 11: Mike Ford #72 of the New York Yankees at bat against the Miami Marlins during a Grapefruit League spring training at Roger Dean Stadium on March 11, 2020 in Jupiter, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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JUPITER, FLORIDA – MARCH 11: Mike Ford #72 of the New York Yankees at bat against the Miami Marlins during a Grapefruit League spring training at Roger Dean Stadium on March 11, 2020 in Jupiter, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
JUPITER, FLORIDA – MARCH 11: Mike Ford #72 of the New York Yankees at bat against the Miami Marlins during a Grapefruit League spring training at Roger Dean Stadium on March 11, 2020 in Jupiter, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

1B Mike Ford

As spring training came to a screeching halt, the Yankees bench seemed pretty much settled, at least from the outside looking in. Kyle Higashioka was likely the backup catcher, Tyler Wade would backup most infield positions, an extra outfielder (Clint Frazier, Rosell Herrera) would make the team and either Thairo Estrada or Mike Ford would round the roster out.

On paper, Ford is a luxury for the Yankees. Luke Voit would need to go through a significant slump to lose his job as the everyday first basemen and even then, the Yanks have D.J. LeMahieu who appeared in 40 games last season. Don’t count out Miguel Andujar as a potential option as well if his bat is too hot to keep out of the lineup.

Despite the depth at first base, Ford was tremendous last season. His 12 homers and .909 OPS in 50 games last year helped keep the Yanks afloat when the injury bug was at its worst.

At the same time, power bats off the bench in the American League aren’t that valuable, especially with a lineup as deep as the one New York has. Still, the left-handed Ford would be a useful tool to help break up the lineup when needed.

INF Thairo Estrada

Like Ford, Estrada was likely battling for the final spot on the 26-man roster heading into April. Estrada fills the role of a typical utility man. He played in the outfield and second base for the Yankees in 2019.

In the minors, he played at third base and shortstop as well. He may not have the blazing fast speed of Wade but his defensive versatility would be a valuable asset in what may be a stacked schedule.

Still, Estrada is entering his age 24 campaign and was already sent down to the minors in late March. He may be better suited to get consistent playing time down in Scranton (or wherever the minors are set to take place).

Last season, Estrada held a 250/.294/.438 line in 69 plate appearances. He may do well to get as much playing time as possible but there are certain scenarios where he can sneak onto the big league roster.

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