NEW YORK — The Yankees look to play a much better brand of baseball heading into the all star break, playing two tough teams heading into the break. Here are some notes/thoughts heading into the final week of the first half.
Most of the updates listed came from the Talkin’ Yanks podcast. To listen to the full podcast, see below:
Jazz Chisholm Jr.
Aaron Boone confirmed this morning on the Talkin’ Yanks podcast this morning that Jazz Chisholm Jr. will move back to second base ahead of tonight’s game against the Mariners. We can all agree that the Yankees best defensive alignment has Jazz Chisholm Jr. at second base — where he averages +3 outs above average (OAA) this season — is best for the Yankees to ensure that their best defenders are in the proper spot. Aaron Boone mentioned that this will be a permanent thing — at least for now — and not just for today. Aaron Boone also confirmed that Oswald Peraza will play third base today.
The Yankees moving Jazz to second base now shows that there is a sense of urgency within the team to win. Putting your best defense on the field — even though Peraza seemingly has a hole in his bat — is showing that the organization recognizes the defensive issues that the Yankees have. This also shows that DJ LeMahieu’s days may be numbered with the Yankees.
Jasson Dominguez
Jasson Dominguez has been on an absolute tear as of late, and will hit leadoff for the Yankees today. In my opinion, Dominguez is the Yankees best option for the leadoff spot right now as a switch hitter. Dominguez gives a constant good at-bat, with a lot of deep counts and is a power threat and a threat to steal bases. Getting Dominguez on base in front of the big boppers in Judge, Bellinger and Stanton would be a huge plus.
Luis Gil
Luis Gil will throw a live session today, and if all goes well, Gil will begin his rehab assignment on Sunday in Somerset. Aaron Boone also confirmed that the plan is for Gil to be placed in the rotation, but nothing is final as of yet and things can change based on the needs of the team.
Getting Gil back in the beginning of August should be a huge boost to the Yankees rotation — if he performs well — helping the Yankees down the stretch.
Cam Schlittler
Aaron Boone confirmed today that prospect Cam Schlittler will make his Major-League debut on Wednesday. Read more about Schlittler and his anticipated debut below: