- Player: Greg Bird
- Resolution: Comeback strong from injury
With the absence of Mark Teixeira’s production last season, the Yankees sure missed Greg Bird’s 38 homer/109 RBI pace from his call up in 2015.
In that stint, Bird crushed 11 home runs in 46 games and slashed .261/.343/.529 with an OPS of .871 but we never got to see him in his sophomore season due to a torn right labrum sustained in the offseason.
This past fall, Bird completed his time down in the Arizona Fall League and although his numbers wouldn’t support “midseason form,” getting at-bats while remaining healthy was more meaningful than any number could display.
In 17 games, the rusty Bird slashed .215/.346/.364 with only one home run and four doubles.
However, his on-base percentage (.346) and walks (12) reassured his organization that although his power and swing may be dull due to a recent recovery from surgery, his plate discipline had not disappeared.
If Bird carries his massive production from two years ago into the lineup, he’ll provide flawless insurance in the cleanup spot behind Gary Sanchez.
Furthermore, if Judge’s power becomes an factor of consistency, the 3-4-5 sequential force the Bombers can pack is downright horrifying.
