TAMPA – The Yankees’ infield gets a different look on Wednesday, with Gio Urshela starting at shortstop.
Urshela last played shortstop in 2018, when she played in eight matches with the Blue Jays. Yankees manager Aaron Boon said he wanted to get Urshella time, when the Yankees needed him “in a pinch” during the regular season.
“It’s something he’s comfortable doing,” Boone said. “On the same side of the field. With shifts and all, this is [played]”
Urshela is coming off elbow surgery in December to remove a bone chip and has not shown any ill effects from the procedure this spring, creating a strong throw from third base.
In the opening shortstyle with Glibber Torres, Tyler Wade overtook him. But against the Tigers on Tuesday, Boone briefly placed Urshela – with Derek Deitrich – in camp on a small league deal, on third, with Wade in second.
“It’s just something I wanted to do this spring,” Boons said of Urshela. “If we ever get in a pinch or we are in a situation where we need to take her there for a day.”
Asked if Urshela could serve as the primary backup in the situation, Boone said no.
“You never know how the season is and how the injuries feel,” Boone said. “More versatility you can create, [the better]. I don’t think it’s anything harsh that we’re doing with Gio. I think it’s very easy [say], ‘Slide over, you’re playing all day low today’ and to keep that option open so that at any point in the year we meet in a position, just feel a little more comfortable that he’s there and done it. “
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