Oswald Peraza taking outfield reps in possible Yankees twist

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The New York Yankees made a significant roster move on Monday to activate designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton from the 60-day injured list. In order to make room for Stanton, the team designated versatile Pablo Reyes for assignment and expanded the utility role of former top infield prospect Oswald Peraza.

Peraza, 25, has been working on his outfield skills with coach Luis Rojas in recent days at both Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium. Manager Aaron Boone believes Peraza is capable of playing in the outfield if needed, adding more versatility to his game. Peraza has started 30 games this season, primarily at third base, but has also seen time at second and shortstop.

Reyes, on the other hand, has made nine outfield appearances for the team this season but was designated for assignment to make room for Stanton. With Jazz Chisholm Jr. taking over at third base and DJ LeMahieu at second, the Yankees are looking to add more options in the outfield, hence the decision to expand Peraza’s role.

Despite never playing in the outfield in the minor leagues or during his time with the Yankees, Peraza’s athleticism and defensive skills give the team confidence that he can handle the new position. Boone expressed his belief that Peraza will adapt well to the change.

In a separate development, right-hander JT Brubaker, who last played in a major league game in 2022, is close to being activated after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023. Brubaker, who was traded to the Yankees by the Pirates last year, has been rehabbing and recently made six minor league outings.

Unfortunately, reliever Jake Cousins will undergo Tommy John surgery on Wednesday, according to Boone. Cousins was a key part of the Yankees bullpen last season and appeared in six games during the 2024 postseason.

In All-Star Game voting news, Aaron Judge leads all players with 1,568,527 votes. Paul Goldschmidt is the top vote-getter at first base in the American League, while Ben Rice is second at designated hitter, although his playing time may decrease with Stanton’s return.

Overall, the Yankees are making strategic roster moves to strengthen their lineup and add versatility to their players as they continue to compete in the American League.