West Sacramento, CA – Oswald Peraza Reflects on His Time with the Yankees

Oswald Peraza, who has yet to be promoted, expressed his enjoyment of being a member of the Yankees. The young infielder is eager to prove his worth to remain part of the team.

On Saturday, Peraza made an impact by hitting a two-run home run that briefly gave the Yankees the lead during the game. It was his second home run of the season, coming in the sixth inning of a tied game. He connected with a pitch from Justin Sterner, sending the ball down the left-field line and over the wall.

With DJ LeMahieu returning to the lineup in Seattle on Monday, questions arose regarding Peraza’s standing on the roster. After hitting the homer, Peraza showed his excitement by slamming his bat into the dirt and pumping his fist as he made his way around the bases.

“A definitely special moment,” Peraza said through interpreter Marlon Abreu. “I feel like I’m part of this team and I really enjoy finding ways to get ready. You want to be prepared when opportunities arise.”

Although there haven’t been many opportunities for him lately, Peraza seems to be adapting. His hitting average has fallen to .205 with an OPS of .657, as he typically plays third base against left-handed pitchers, while Oswald Cabrera plays against righties.

“He’s not playing a lot, but his batting has noticeably improved since the start of the season,” manager Aaron Boone noted.

With LeMahieu’s return, the Yankees will need to make a roster decision—either designating Peraza or Pablo Reyes for assignment or optioning Yoruvit Vivas.

Peraza is looking to build on his recent success, but the Yankees are facing a series of right-handed starters next week, posing a challenge. “It’s definitely tough to stay prepared,” he acknowledged, “but I’m finding ways to enjoy it and stay ready.”

Inside the clubhouse, reminders of the Yankees’ culture abound. Lockers are situated for players like Luis Severino and Miguel Andújar, among others. Also present is Mitch Spence, a Rule 5 pick acquired by the Yankees in December 2023.

JP Sears, who was included in the Frankie Montas trade at the 2022 deadline, has made a name for himself in the A’s rotation, pitching effectively. He fondly remembers his time with the Yankees, recounting an experience with Aaron Judge that highlighted the camaraderie within the team.

“It seemed to me that he was always the person he claimed to be,” Sears said, reminiscing about their dinner plans that Judge had set up for him and his family.

The Yankees recently shifted right-hander Scott Effross’ rehabilitation assignment from the FCL Yankees to Double-A Somerset.

The Yankees have not yet announced a starting pitcher for the final game of Sunday’s series and are seeking a fifth starter after Carlos Carrasco was designated for assignment. They hope to give Clark Schmidt some extra rest before Monday’s game.

Boone mentioned that Ryan Yalbra would be involved in some capacity, indicating that they might explore various options for the bullpen or utilize “bulk innings” from relievers.

In an unexpected twist, Ben Rice faced Sears in Saturday’s game lineup. Judge played designated hitter, with Trent Grisham starting at center field and Cody Bellinger in right. Rice pinch-hit in the eighth inning against Mason Miller.

“I see this as a way to keep the players fresh,” Boone commented. “But they’re all playing regularly. So far, it seems to be working.”