The Yankees made roster changes on Monday to help bring Giancarlo Stanton back into play, as he was activated from the 60-day injured list for the first time this season.
To facilitate this, they designated Pablo Reyes for assignment, allowing Oswald Peraza, a former top infield prospect, to expand his role with the team.
Peraza, 25, has recently played in the outfield at both Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium. Manager Aaron Boone, alongside Lewis Rojas, feels confident that Peraza will be available whenever needed.
“The roster adjustments ensure he gets some reps, which can be realistic,” Boone noted just before the Yankees faced the Angels. “During games, you’re substituting and running, so it’s about adding versatility for him.”
This season, Peraza has started 30 games, mostly at third base and shortstop, including a couple of times in place of Anthony Volpe.
Interestingly, he hasn’t played in the outfield during his minor league career or in the Yankees over the past four seasons.
Reyes, on the other hand, has experience in 67 games across eight big league seasons with five different teams, including one start this season and nine appearances in the outfield.
With Jazz Chisholm Jr. back at third base since June 3 and DJ Lemahieu reviving his performance from mid-May, Peraza’s outfield experience gives the Yankees another layer of flexibility.
“We don’t have a lot of options, so we’ll need to get comfortable with some adjustments,” Boone said. “But I believe ‘Oz’ can handle that well.”
He acknowledged Peraza as a promising athlete, particularly on defense, and hopes he’ll manage well when the pressure is on.
On another note, JT Brubaker was in the Bronx on Monday. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in April 2023, the right-hander is now close to returning, having made six minor league appearances with solid results.
“The feelings you get when you’re out there, everything that keeps you motivated,” Brubaker shared. “Just being a possible option here is inspiring.”
He had faced setbacks in spring training and dealt with some broken ribs in February, but now he’s healthy and ready for his return.
Injuries continue to be a concern; Boone revealed that reliever Jake Cousins will undergo Tommy John surgery on Wednesday. Cousins was a significant presence in the Yankees’ bullpen last season, posting a 2.37 ERA
In the latest All-Star Game voting update, Aaron Judge is leading all players with over 1.5 million votes, while Paul Goldschmidt is topping the American League first base votes. Ben Rice holds second place for designated hitter, though his playing time might be impacted as Stanton returns.
