The New York Yankees are currently facing significant challenges with their infield defense during the 2024 MLB season. All four starters—Paul Goldschmidt, DJ LeMahieu, Anthony Volpe, and Jazz Chisholm—have recorded negative outs above average, indicating below-par defensive performance. This issue was brought to light by Yankees reporter Chris Kirschner, highlighting the urgent need for improvement within the team‘s infield. To address these defensive struggles, the Yankees have signed infielder Nicky Lopez to a minor league contract, aiming to strengthen their infield defense.
Challenges at Third Base Highlighted by Jazz Chisholm’s Position Struggles
Jazz Chisholm, currently playing third base, has openly admitted his discomfort with the position, describing himself as a second baseman forced to adapt outside his natural role. This admission reflects the broader difficulties the team faces in fielding a dependable defensive alignment, further emphasizing the necessity for roster changes that could provide more stability across the infield.
The Defensive Specialist: Nicky Lopez Joins the Yankees’ Organization
Nicky Lopez, recognized for his defensive abilities and a 2024 Gold Glove finalist, was recently acquired by the Yankees on a minor league deal, as reported by insider Robert Murray. Known for his versatility in infield positions, Lopez is expected to bring much-needed defensive stability to a shaky Yankees infield. Although his offensive numbers are modest, with a .245 MLB career batting average and a recent .267 average at Triple-A Reno, his value lies primarily in his glove work rather than power hitting.
Lopez’s Role and Potential Impact on the Yankees’ Roster
The Yankees plan to initially assign Lopez to their Triple-A affiliate, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, but a quick call-up to the major league squad remains a possibility. His defensive skills offer a strong option for late-inning substitutions or spot starts, which could provide more consistent infield coverage and reduce errors. With the Yankees struggling defensively, Lopez’s arrival may help stabilize the infield and boost the team’s overall performance in crucial game situations.
Significance of Lopez’s Addition for the Season Ahead
The inclusion of Nicky Lopez in the Yankees’ system represents a strategic attempt to shore up infield defense amid ongoing positional uncertainties and performance issues. While Lopez may not dramatically enhance the offense, his defensive reliability could prove essential for a team aiming to reverse its current fortunes. Going forward, the Yankees will likely monitor his impact closely and consider expanding his role if his glove work translates well at the major league level, potentially influencing their infield configuration as the season progresses.