As the New York Yankees gear up for their first Spring Training game, fans might notice some unfamiliar names on the lineup card. Key players like Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Cody Bellinger, and Trent Grisham are sitting this one out. But that's par for the course in Spring Training, where the focus is more on evaluation than results.
Today, the Yankees are taking on the Baltimore Orioles in Sarasota, Fla., with Jazz Chisholm Jr. leading a group of players eager to make their mark. While some fans might take to social media to question manager Aaron Boone's lineup choices, it's important to remember that these games are about getting a look at the depth and potential of the roster.
Let's dive into some of the players taking the field today:
Ernesto Martinez Jr. is stepping up as a non-roster invitee. This first baseman had a challenging stint at Triple-A with the Milwaukee Brewers, hitting just six home runs over 80 games. He's looking to turn heads and earn a spot.
Marco Luciano, playing left field, was once a top prospect for the San Francisco Giants. After being designated for assignment three times this offseason, he's eager to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
In right field, Duke Ellis brings speed to the lineup. Though he has just one career plate appearance with the Yankees from 2024, his agility could be a game-changer.
Center fielder Kenedy Corona is coming off a brief stint with the Houston Astros, where he didn’t manage a hit in four plate appearances. He’s looking to change that narrative today.
Behind the plate, Ali Sanchez offers the most Major League experience among the group, with 50 games under his belt since 2020. His familiarity with the big leagues could provide stability and leadership on the field.
While the lineup might not feature the usual star power, it offers a glimpse into the future and a chance for these players to showcase their skills. Spring Training is all about opportunity, and today’s game is a chance for these Yankees hopefuls to shine.