New York Yankees second baseman Gleyber Torres expressed reservations about a potential position change to third base following the team’s acquisition of Jazz Chisholm Jr.
Torres conveyed his preference to remain at second base during a press conference on Sunday, recalling his discomfort playing third base during his minor league tenure.
“I had a conversation with Aaron Boone about third base, and ‘everything is on the table,'” Torres said. When asked about his experience playing third in the minors, he candidly replied, “I don’t like it.”
According to Baseball Reference, Torres, 27, played 187 innings at third base in the minors but has never played the position in an MLB game.
His last stint at third was in 2018, and he has never been a regular at the hot corner, making his reluctance understandable.
This potential position change comes at an inopportune time for Torres, who is approaching free agency.
A move to third base could impact his market value, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
The Yankees face a conundrum with Chisholm’s arrival, as the team lacks a clear defensive spot for him. Chisholm is most comfortable at second base, Torres’ primary position.
The Miami Marlins previously utilized Chisholm at shortstop and center field, but the Yankees already have Anthony Volpe and Aaron Judge solidifying those positions.
Manager Aaron Boone announced plans to give both Torres and Chisholm opportunities to practice at third base during workouts.
Chisholm, in contrast to Torres, appears open to the idea.
“I went out there and played center field for the first time last year,” Chisholm told reporters on Sunday. “It was pretty difficult at first, but I feel like I can go and play anywhere and help my team win. Especially a winning team, if they’re asking me to go somewhere and help them win, I’m definitely going to do it.”
The situation could find a resolution if Chisholm adapts well to third base and provides solid defense.
However, Boone may have to reconsider his strategy if the experiment falters, potentially leading to further adjustments in the Yankees’ defensive alignment.