Mike Francesa made his annual trip to Mohegan Sun on Friday to broadcast live from the Wolf Den.
Mike Francesa with Tyler Austin!!⚾️ pic.twitter.com/QkvH4kmsr8
— Bronx Pinstripes (@BronxPinstripes) February 10, 2017
Among the show’s guests was Tyler Austin, who was asked about the Yankees recent signing of slugger Chris Carter. “To be honest, I was a little frustrated,” said Austin. He went on to clarify, “But he’s just another guy to help the team win.”
Tyler Austin, who made his debut last August along with Aaron Judge, is expected to battle for a roster spot this spring. The biggest asset Austin brings to the table is his versatility — he can play first base, corner outfield positions, and has even done work at third base this winter.
The Yankees roster is currently filled with starters at all of Austin’s positions. Greg Bird is expected to break camp as the first baseman and Chase Headley the third baseman. The team also has a number of corner outfielders ahead of Tyler on the depth chart.
In a phone interview with NJ Advance Media in January, Austin was not shy about competing this spring. “I’m not going into this settling for a backup role.”
Now, with the addition of 1B/DH Chris Carter, Austin’s competition just got a lot more fierce.
Austin’s comments to Francesa are understandable, and actually express the sentiment of many Yankees fans who are fearful that Carter will leech at-bats from players like Austin, Bird, and Judge.
Carter and Austin’s roles have yet to be defined, but Carter’s 41 homers in the NL last season give him a leg-up on the competition.
