The New York Yankees are no strangers to rumors and speculation, especially when it comes to their shortstop position. With the recent struggles of their current shortstop, Gleyber Torres, analysts and fans have been quick to link the team to potential replacements. One name that keeps popping up is Bo Bichette, but does the data support this potential move?
Bichette, currently the starting shortstop for the Toronto Blue Jays, has been making waves in the league with his impressive offensive numbers. His batting average and home run count have caught the attention of many teams, including the Yankees. However, when it comes to his defensive abilities, the numbers don’t quite add up.
According to Statcast, a state-of-the-art tracking system that measures player performance in baseball, Bichette’s defense is a major liability. In fact, he ranks in the bottom 1% of all major league shortstops for defense. This is a concerning statistic for any team looking to add him to their roster, especially a team like the Yankees who place a high value on strong defensive players.
While Bichette’s offensive prowess is undeniable, it’s crucial for a team like the Yankees to have a well-rounded shortstop who can excel in both offense and defense. With the Yankees’ recent struggles on the defensive side of the game, adding Bichette to the mix may not be the solution they are looking for.
Additionally, the move to bring Bichette to New York would also come at a high cost. The Yankees would most likely have to part ways with some of their top prospects or established players to acquire Bichette. Is it worth it to give up valuable assets for a player whose defense is a major concern?
It’s also worth noting that the Yankees already have a promising young shortstop in Gleyber Torres. While he may be going through a rough patch at the moment, he has shown immense potential in his time with the team. With some guidance and coaching, Torres has the ability to become a strong and reliable shortstop for the Yankees for years to come.
Moreover, the Yankees have other options within their own organization. Tyler Wade, who has been primarily used as a utility player, has shown flashes of brilliance on defense and could be a viable option at shortstop. The team also has Thairo Estrada and Kyle Holder, both highly regarded defensive specialists, waiting in the wings.
In conclusion, while the rumors and speculation may continue, it’s important to look at the numbers and facts before jumping to conclusions. Bichette’s offensive numbers may be impressive, but his defensive struggles could ultimately hurt a team like the Yankees. With promising options within their own organization, it may be best for the Yankees to focus on developing their current players rather than making a risky move for Bichette.
It’s also important to remember that there are still many games left in the season and Torres has the potential to turn things around. As the Yankees continue to compete for a playoff spot, it’s crucial for the team to have a strong and supportive fanbase. Let’s rally behind our current players and trust in the organization to make the best decisions for the team’s success.
So, while the analysts may keep linking Bichette to the Yankees, the numbers and potential costs don’t add up. Let’s focus on supporting our current players and trust in the team to make the right moves for a successful season. Go Yankees!
