The New York Yankees’ 2025 season has barely begun, and already, fans and analysts alike are questioning the team’s decision-making during the offseason. One of the key infielders, who was expected to contribute heavily, is now sidelined with a calf injury that has fans worried about the team’s depth and future. The injury has cast a long shadow over the Yankees’ infield and has many wondering if they overlooked a critical opportunity last winter.

While the injury is undoubtedly a blow, it also brings into focus the Yankees’ decision to not aggressively pursue a third baseman upgrade during the offseason. This position has been a question mark for the team in recent years, but they seemed comfortable betting on their internal options. Now, with uncertainty surrounding the injured player, the Yankees find themselves in a situation where that decision is being heavily scrutinized.

The player stepping up to fill the void is Oswaldo Cabrera, a young and versatile infielder with a lot of promise but still a fair bit to prove. Cabrera has shown flashes of brilliance, but his consistency is still a question. With the team’s current situation, it’s unclear if he can truly deliver at the level needed for a position as crucial as third base.

DJ LeMahieu

The Yankees’ decision to stick with Cabrera and other internal candidates like Oswald Peraza raised eyebrows, especially when high-caliber third base options were available. Veterans who could have provided immediate stability at the position, like Josh Donaldson, were in the market, yet the Yankees chose to prioritize other areas. This gamble now looks more risky than ever.

As the season progresses, the Yankees will need to rely on Cabrera and Peraza to fill the gap. The question remains: Will they rise to the occasion, or will the Yankees regret their decision not to secure a more established third baseman when they had the chance? Time will tell, but the team’s season could hinge on the outcome of this risky bet.