3 Yankees players who won’t be on the roster by May 1
By Tim Boyle
The Yankees will send catcher Jose Trevino to the minor leagues as soon as Ben Rordvedt is back
One of the biggest chances the Yankees made this offseason was to eliminate any doubts about the defense at the catcher position. They moved on from Gary Sanchez in favor of a Kyle Higashioka/Ben Rordvedt combination. Both defensive catchers with lighter bats, the Yankees started the year with Higashioka and Jose Trevino as their catchers. Rordvedt is dealing with an oblique injury and is on the IL for the time being.
However, once Rordvedt does come back, there is no need for Trevino anymore. And although Higashioka has struggled at the plate, familiarity with the pitching staff and his lack of minor league options makes Trevino the guy who will lose his roster spot.
Trevino was acquired in a trade with the Texas Rangers in early April to help the Yankees survive the absence of Rordvedt. Unfortunately, even when he does return, the offensive production will likely be minimal at best.
Fans should prepare for Trevino to bounce back and forth between the majors and Triple-A this year as needed. Rordvedt, who also has minor league options, will have to prove himself in New York. This means hitting and playing well behind the plate. Just because they landed him in a big trade doesn’t mean he has a permanent spot in the big leagues.