Baltimore – Amed Rosario’s Journey with the Yankees

There was a time when fans thought Amed Rosario would be a standout for the Mets, blooming as a star in New York. He made his debut with the Mets back in 2017, just at 21, but, well, things didn’t quite pan out as many had hoped. Eventually, he was traded to the Cleveland Guardians, which brought Francis Colindor to Queens.

Now, Rosario has a new chance to make an impact in New York, this time with the Yankees, and he’s certainly making the most of it. He played a pivotal role in the Yankees’ victory on Thursday night, kicking off with a two-base hit against Baltimore’s Cade Povich, followed by a two-run double that helped secure a 7-0 win over the Orioles.

The Yankees brought Rosario in from Washington right before the trade deadline, valuing his veteran experience, versatility in the infield, and ability to hit left-handed. In the 13 games since joining the Yankees, he’s managed to bat 10 for 25, showcasing his potential with extra-base hits.

As of Thursday, he had a remarkable .859 OPS against left-handed pitchers this season. Even though he’s not a regular starter, Rosario, now 29, is eager to embrace his new role with the Yankees. “I prepare the same way I did every day,” he mentioned through an interpreter, showing his commitment.

The Yankees appreciate Rosario’s defensive skills and his offensive contributions. Manager Aaron Boone praised him, saying, “He’s really well prepared. He’s a pro. I love the energy he brings to the field. He has a veteran presence and has transformed into an impactful left-handed hitter.”

Rosario seems to be enjoying this second chance in New York. “I’m very pleased to be in this position,” he shared. He’s aware of the team’s aspirations and is keen on helping them in the playoffs. Reflecting on his previous stint with the Mets, he feels no regrets about how it ended, despite the promise he once held as a shortstop.

His time in Cleveland was generally solid, but brief tenures with the Dodgers, Rays, Reds, and Nationals in 2022 were somewhat forgettable. Now, as he throws for the Yankees, Rosario is focused on his game and enjoying his place among the team.

When asked about the expectations he faced early in his career, Rosario noted, “It wasn’t difficult to deal with. I was able to separate what everyone thought from how I performed on the field. If I focused on the pressure, it might have affected my play, but I just wanted to keep playing.” Almost a decade later, he’s still navigating the highs and lows of being a ballplayer, now ready to make the most of this opportunity.