Long-Term 3B Answer for Yankees as DJ LeMahieu Sits – Cabrera’s Breakout or Newcomer Berti?

The New York Yankees’ desire for a comfortable start to the season was dealt a blow. More injuries than expected have shaken the team with a wave of uncertainty. Yet again, misery has struck with the news of DJ LeMahieu‘s fractured foot. The veteran third baseman will be sidelined for several weeks. How will the club now address the gaping hole in the infield? 

Oswaldo Cabrera, a versatile infielder, made a strong case for himself in LeMahieu’s absence.  He recently surged as an offensive force and undeniably got traction. It’s hard to forget his impressive four-hit performance in the Yankees’ victory over the Houston Astros. It was a performance that left fans scratching their heads and asking, ‘Who is this guy?’

Oswaldo Cabrera’s Hot Start In the Bronx – Line Drives and Toe-Tap Powering Early Success

Thanks to Juan Soto, the man whom he learned from, Cabrera detailed,  “The one big thing that I see from that guy(Soto) is he doesn’t try to hit fly balls. He’s not trying to hit the ball in the air every time. His hands just get quick to the ball. That’s what got my attention. He’s always trying to hit line drives.” He further stated that when he saw Soto hitting in the cage for the first time, “it was low line drives all of the time, so what am I doing trying to hit homers all of the time?” 

Cabrera’s newfound focus on line drives juxtaposed with his adoption of a toe-tap approach along the lines of Gleyber Torres’, has resulted impressively. His flaming .375 batting average in spring training and his early season success (6-for-9 with a homer and 4 RBIs) have manager Aaron Boone all praises for him. Boone particularly underscored Cabrera’s ability, “I think he’s worked hard on controlling the flight of the ball. You hear me talk about not putting your pitch on the net — when you have a good swing and you’re on it but you foul it off.”

But, there are a few who believe that the Yankees might look beyond Cabrera. DJ LeMahieu’s injury history, along with the foot issue that affected him in 2022, poses as a threat to his long-term durability. This has directed some folks to advocate for a new option – the recent Yankees acquisition – Jon Berti.  

Read More : New York Yankees Trade for Jon Berti, Address Critical Depth Issue With Opening Day 24 Hours Away

Could Jon Berti Make the Cut In the New York Yankees 3B?

The Yankees could consider the former Miami Marlin Berti. The 34-year-old veteran comes with a proven track record who could provide a potent right-handed bat in the middle of the lineup. On one hand, Berti may not be the defensive stalwart LeMahieu is. On the other, his offensive flaming power could be a blessing in disguise to a Yankees team eager for another championship.

Read More : Meet Jon Berti: DJ LeMahieu’s Unexpected Yankees Replacement After 3-Team Trade

Eventually, it is on the Yankees’ front office to decide. Will they nurture the blossoming talent of Oswaldo Cabrera, hoping he can develop into LeMahieu’s long-term successor? Or will they prioritize a win-now approach and go after a proven veteran like Jon Berti? Only time will tell which route the Yankees choose. One thing is certain – the hot seat at 3B just got a whole lot hotter.