Clint Frazier wants to take Brett Gardner’s spot with the Yankees
Clint Frazier isn’t going to take Brett Gardner’s spot in the Yankees lineup this season. Frazier does, however want to prove he can replace Gardy in time.
You have to believe that somewhere in Clint Frazier’s mind, there’s some happiness that Brett Gardner is suffering from a minor knee injury. He doesn’t want his teammate to miss serious time, but he relishes the opportunity to show the Yankees brass he can serve as Gardner’s long-term replacement.
Yesterday’s 4-3 victory over Seattle was Frazier’s first real chance to prove to Brian Cashman and company that he can replace everything Gardner gives the team. Not only did Frazier get an opportunity to hit in the leadoff spot, but he also got the start in center field. That isn’t something Gardner does frequently at this stage of his career, but it added a lot of value to his performance earlier in his career.
Frazier answered the bell by going 2-for-4 at the plate and scoring one run for his ballclub. That one game isn’t going to be enough to solidify his place in New York’s long-term plans, but it didn’t hurt. Perhaps more importantly, he lifted his batting average to .368 in just 23 plate appearances this season.
That clearly isn’t a large enough sample size to really establish how good of a player Frazier can become. Instead, you need to take a look at how he’s playing the game. Observing Frazier go about his business doesn’t lead you to believe he’s going to hit .368 for the season, but the way he approaches each at bat gives Yankees fans real cause for optimism.
The best thing about Frazier’s approach at the plate is he’s willing to use all fields. He has quick hands that allow him to turn on inside fastballs, but he’s equally as comfortable hitting the ball to right field with real authority. Frazier’s willingness to use all fields should allow him to hit for a high average for the foreseeable future.
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There is a legitimate question about what sort of power he’ll be able to produce. Remember though, Gardner has improved that aspect of his game as he’s gotten older. There’s no reason to think that Frazier can’t do the same thing as his game matures.
The biggest question about Frazier’s ability to take over for Gardner is whether or not he can do the defensive job. He certainly looks capable of playing left field in a similar fashion that Gardner currently does. Frazier doesn’t possess quite as much speed, but he does have a marginally better arm. He comfortably profiles as an above-average defender in left.
The one thing Frazier likely can’t do is play center field at the same level that Gardner did earlier in his career. He lacks the foot speed and instincts to make that transition successfully. Frazier can play center in a pinch, but he shouldn’t be counted on to play there as a consistent starter.
Add it all up and Frazier has the potential to replace what Gardner gives the Yankees currently. He can definitely hit the ball all over the field with pop. He can also give New York solid defense in left field. Unfortunately, he can’t give the team what Gardner used to provide. His inability to play center field will ultimately limit his ability to become a real star. Frazier can take over for Gardner in left field, but he won’t be patrolling center field in the Bronx after Aaron Hicks moves on.
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Frazier has the talent to be an above-average left fielder for the Yankees. That means he can replace Gardner in the short-term. It also means he’ll continue to be susceptible to the Yankees electing to bring in another star outfielder to play there. His inability to project as an everyday center fielder limits his job security with the Yankees.