It appears the Yankees are ready to move on from two of their starting infielders.
As things stand, New York has no plans to pursue either Anthony Rizzo or Gleyber Torres in free agency this offseason, YES Network’s Jack Curry said on Monday night’s edition of Yankee Hot Stove.
Both players expressed interest in returning at seasons end, but it appears the club has other plans.
Rizzo served as a solid leader and steady left-handed bat for the most part during his his three years in the Big Apple, but his offensive production ultimately dropped off as he battled the injury bug each of the past two seasons.
The Yankees could turn things over to youngster Ben Rice at first base, or they could take a big swing on someone like former Mets slugger Pete Alonso or three-time Gold Glover Christian Walker in the free agent market as his replacement.
Torres also enjoyed his share of big moments in pinstripes but his streaky bat, questionable base-running, and shaky infield defense left much to be desired at times over the years.
If things don’t change, Curry said that he’d be willing to bet that 24-year-old top prospect Caleb Durbin will be part of the Yankees’ Opening Day roster, and there’s a chance he could find himself in the mix as Torres’ replacement.
Durbin was recently added to the 40-Man roster and he shined during Arizona Fall League action with two doubles, a triple, five homers, and 29 stolen bases in 21 games.
