Yankees manager Aaron Boone was brimming with confidence. Of course, he’s typically upbeat, but he had even more reason Wednesday. It was the start of spring training, his first press conference of camp as pitchers and catchers reported for physicals. Their first workout would come Thursday.
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Here were our biggest takeaway’s from Boone:
Domingo German’s status: German, suspended for the 2020 season following allegations of domestic violence, will be “welcomed” back to the clubhouse, Boone said. The manager said he met with German alongside general manager Brian Cashman and bench coach Carlos Mendoza. Boone said there were no immediate plans for German to address his teammates. He hasn’t pitched since 2019 and figures to factor into the starting rotation plans. “He’s paid a significant price from a career standpoint,” Boone said.
Healthy — and safe from the coronavirus: No Yankees are expected to miss the start of spring training due to health issues and no players tested positive for COVID-19 during the intake process, Boone said.
Won’t rule out Brett Gardner: Boone said he last spoke to the 37-year-old free agent outfielder several weeks ago and didn’t shut the door on him coming back. “You never know what can happen, but we’ll see,” Boone said. Gardner would be looking at a fourth outfielder role because ...
... Clint Frazier is the starting left fielder: That’s It. That’s the message. After breaking through defensively in 2020, the Yankees believe Frazier is finally ready to take over full time after acquiring him all the way back in 2016 from the Indians for Andrew Miller. ““Clint has earned his place,” Boone said.
The ultimate goal: Boone said the Yankees are constructed to contend for a World Series. “I believe (we’re) on the short list of teams really capable of winning a championship ... in fact, I’m as excited as I’ve been with some of the moves we’ve made to put ourselves on really good footing as we enter this season.’'
Taillon, Kluber ready: Corey Kluber and Jameson Taillon — arguably the Yankees’ highest-profile additions of the offseason — should be ready once spring training starts without limitations, Boone said. Kluber pitched just one inning last year after tearing a teres major muscle. Taillon missed 2020 due to Tommy John surgery recovery.
Roster construction: Boone said the Yankees wouldn’t rule out a 14-man pitching staff at times with a three-man position player bench. He added that it would be ideal to stick with a 13-13 split.
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Brendan Kuty may be reached at bkuty@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.
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