Bench play could be a strength for the 2017 New York Yankees
Austin Romine
Austin Romine is the prototypical backup catcher.
[sc name=”Yankees Center 2″ ]
He won’t overly impress with the bat (.242/.269/.382 in ’16) but his abilities behind the plate is exactly what the doctor should order when Sanchez needs a day.
In 355.1 total innings behind the plate last season, Romine made just one error making his .997 fielding percentage rank fourth in the American League among catchers with at least 350 innings of service.
Additionally, his catcher’s ERA was 3.88 last season ranking ahead of Sanchez (4.41) and Brian McCann (4.18). While his caught stealing percentage is low at 17%, his consistency as a backstop and game-caller is exactly what his role calls for.
[sc name=”Yankees Link Slideshow” link=”elitesportsny.com/2017/01/14/bench-play-could-be-a-strength-of-the-2017-new-york-yankees/4″ text=”Ronald Torreyes” ]
Christian Kouroupakis covers the New York Yankees and is the Editorial Director for ESNY. Interact with him and view his daily work by “liking” his facebook page and follow him on Twitter. All statistics are courtesy of Baseball Reference.com unless otherwise noted. Don’t hesitate to shoot him an email with any questions, criticisms, or concerns.
