We all know Tyler Wade has been absolutely killing it at spring training for the New York Yankees. What we don’t know is what he could become, which Willie Randolph apparently knows.
Tyler Wade is fighting for a spot on the New York Yankees Opening Day roster. However, it was up to Willie Randolph, Wade would already be in the MVP conversation.
Brendan Kuty of NJ.com quoted Randolph as comparing Wade to super utility man Ben Zobrist, a three-time All-Star currently on the Chicago Cubs roster.
If you like the #Yankees, you probably like Willie Randolph. And he really, really likes what Tyler Wade could become. https://t.co/wBljIqlNS4
— Brendan Kuty (@BrendanKutyNJ) March 19, 2018
That is a pretty heavy accolade coming from one of the most beloved Yankee players. Zobrist wasn’t just an All-Star…the 36-year-old earned the MVP award for the 2016 World Series.
Zobrist is known as a great player primarily because he can do so much. He is incredibly versatile, playing every single position except for pitcher over his 12-year career.
Wade has been filling in that utility role in a great way, practicing at various positions and excelling this spring at second base. Beyond that, he’s showing some promise at the plate, batting .313 with a .452 OBP in 16 games this spring.
Besides the comparisons to Zobrist, Randolph had many more positive things to share about Tyler Wade.
“I just love his energy,” Randolph told Kuty of NJ.com. “I’m a speed guy. I love his speed. I love his attitude. He comes everyday, he has a smile on his face. Always consistent, very respectful. He just wants to win and play the game.”
That means a lot coming from a guy like Randolph who has seen a vast amount of young talent in his years. If he likes Wade that much, it’s hard to go against his word.
Tyler Wade has made his name known across the organization and has gained praise from various other sources, including current manager Aaron Boone. This kid is something special.
