Yankees turn IL stint for star into massive opportunity for young prospect

The Yankees will get Oswald Peraza into the majors, but it appears that the space created for that move is due to a star hitting the IL.

Yankees prospect Oswald Peraza was leap-frogged by Anthony Volpe in spring training, missing out on the up-for-grabs starting shortstop role. But now it appears he’ll get a chance at the big leagues again after making his MLB debut late in 2022.

Peraza is reportedly getting called up according to multiple Yankees insiders (Marly Rivera, Bryan Hoch).

But that also means there must be a corresponding roster move that created that space. Evidently, it’s bad news: Giancarlo Stanton is expected to hit the IL with a hamstring injury. An MRI is incoming.

Injury blow becomes opportunity for Yankees prospect

Stanton left the game after reaching base on Saturday afternoon. Aaron Hicks came in as a pinch runner for Stanton, which appeared to be a routine substitution, not due to injury. It’s unclear if the injury happened then or at another point.

He hasn’t played the field since April 12th, and was replaced after eight and seven innnings respectively in the last two games as a designated hitter.

It’s unclear how long Stanton will be out for, as the MRI will reveal more. He’s been solid this year with 4 home runs and an OPS of .854.

Stanton’s absence creates a hole at designated hitter, so it’s a great opportunity to get someone like Peraza up to help continue the youth movement.

Volpe has been one of the most exciting parts of the season so far. Though his bat has taken a while to find him, he’s been excellent on defense. He has yet to commit an error and has 21 putouts. For that reason, expect Peraza to get some run mostly at DH, second base as needed, and shortstop on Volpe off-days.

Hopefully, Peraza will pick up where he left off at the end of 2022 in whatever role he’s asked to play.