The New York Yankees find themselves at a fascinating crossroads heading into 2025, particularly regarding their infield configuration. At the heart of this strategic challenge lies the future roles of two promising talents: Oswald Peraza and Oswaldo Cabrera. Their future in pinstripes is the subject of considerable discussion.
Both players have demonstrated versatility and potential, positioning them as valuable assets in the Yankees’ infield strategy. Their development and deployment could significantly shape the Yankees’ competitive outlook. Let’s look at where they fit in the Bombers’ 2025 plan.
The Oswald Peraza question
Primary role: Utility infielder or second base starter
Secondary Role: Trade asset
Oswald Peraza, a 24-year-old infielder, has shown defensive prowess but has struggled offensively in his limited MLB appearances. In 11 plate appearances, he has a batting average of .200, with a .273 on-base percentage and a .500 slugging percentage. In Triple-A, these stood .246/ .341/.396 in 406 appearances.
His major league numbers tell a sobering story has raised legitimate questions about his bat’s readiness for everyday duty. Yet beneath these statistics lies intriguing potential. The measured assessment – acknowledging Peraza’s raw talent while emphasizing the need for growth – perfectly captures the organization’s cautious optimism.
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With the Yankees losing Gleyber Torres to free agency, a vacancy at second base presents a prime opportunity for Peraza. His defensive skills remain his strongest asset, and he could compete for the starting role if he demonstrates offensive improvement during spring training. If Peraza’s bat heats up, he could cement himself as a reliable middle infielder, pairing with Anthony Volpe at shortstop to form a youthful and defensively sound duo.
However, the Yankees’ win-now mandate adds complexity to Peraza’s situation. His combination of youth, defensive excellence, and team control makes him an attractive trade chip. The front office must weigh his long-term potential against immediate competitive needs, particularly if his offensive development stalls.
If the Yankees prioritize immediate contention and seek a proven player to bolster their roster, Peraza could be packaged in a trade. His upside as a young, controllable infielder makes him a valuable asset on the trade market.
Peraza must address his offensive struggles to secure a long-term role. Improving his contact rate, plate discipline, and power production will be essential for him to contribute meaningfully in the lineup.
Oswaldo Cabrera’s multi-dimensional value
Primary role: Super utility player
Potential starting role: Second or third base
Oswaldo Cabrera, 25, has been a versatile utility player for the Yankees, covering multiple positions in both the infield and outfield. In the 2024 season, he played 108 games, posting a .233 batting average, a .291 on-base percentage, and a .352 slugging percentage, with eight home runs and 36 RBIs. While his offensive metrics are below league average, his defensive flexibility adds significant value.
General Manager Brian Cashman has indicated that Cabrera could be part of the infield mix if no further additions are made. This suggests that the Yankees view him as a viable option for second or third base, depending on how the roster develops in the offseason.
Cabrera’s defensive versatility will likely be his ticket to consistent playing time in 2025. Capable of playing second base, third base, and even outfield positions, Cabrera will be a critical depth piece, providing coverage across the diamond. His skill set allows the Yankees to adjust their lineup seamlessly, offering depth and strategic options to augment matchup-based decisions.
Depending on the Yankees’ offseason acquisitions, Cabrera could compete for a starting role at second or third base. His strong defensive instincts and improving offensive metrics could make him a viable everyday player if the Yankees opt not to make significant infield additions.
Cabrera’s switch-hitting ability adds flexibility to the lineup, particularly against tough matchups. As a bench player, he could provide a spark with timely hits and key defensive plays.
Yankees’ infield vacancy presents opportunities
In 2025, Oswald Peraza and Oswaldo Cabrera are likely to be critical cogs in the Yankees’ infield strategy. Peraza’s ceiling as a defensively elite infielder gives him a path to a starting role, provided his bat improves. Meanwhile, Cabrera’s versatility ensures he will play a vital role as a utility player or potential starter. Both players have the tools to succeed, but their impact will hinge on their spring performances and how the Yankees’ roster shapes up during the offseason.
The Yankees have made several moves impacting their infield configuration. The departure of Gleyber Torres, who signed with the Detroit Tigers, has opened a spot at second base. Additionally, the acquisition of Paul Goldschmidt on a one-year deal addresses the first base position.
With these changes, the Yankees have several options:
Internal Solutions: Relying on players like Cabrera and Peraza to fill infield roles. Cabrera’s versatility makes him a candidate for second or third base, while Peraza could compete for a spot if he improves offensively.
Further Acquisitions: Exploring trades or free-agent signings to bolster the infield. The Yankees have been linked to various players who could fill these roles, though financial considerations and luxury tax implications are factors.
If the Yankees acquire additional infielders or promote other prospects, playing time for Peraza and Cabrera could be limited. This scenario may force the team to make tough decisions about their futures.
Looking ahead: Defining roles in 2025
As the 2025 season approaches, the Yankees are evaluating their infield options, with Oswald Peraza and Oswaldo Cabrera being integral to these considerations. Cabrera’s defensive versatility and Peraza’s potential upside provide the team with internal options, though offensive improvements are necessary for both to secure starting roles. The Yankees’ decisions in the coming months will clarify the positions these players will occupy and how the infield will be structured for the season.
In the Yankees’ 2025 plans, Peraza and Cabrera are poised to play roles, albeit with some challenges and uncertainties. Their contributions will largely depend on the team’s offseason moves and their individual development during spring training. Here’s a detailed projection of their roles:
With the Yankees navigating injuries and inconsistent performances in recent years, both Peraza and Cabrera offer much-needed depth. They provide cost-effective solutions to plug gaps while allowing the team to allocate resources elsewhere. Incorporating Peraza and Cabrera into regular roles reflects the Yankees’ emphasis on building around a younger core. This strategy balances financial sustainability and long-term competitiveness.
Both Peraza and Cabrera need to prove they can hit consistently at the major league level. While defense and versatility are valuable, the Yankees will need offensive contributions from every spot in the lineup.
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