In a somewhat surprising move, the Yankees reinstated first baseman Tyler Austin from the 60-day disabled list and optioned him to the Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders.
Austin was expected to be added to the Major League roster as soon as he completed his rehab assignment, as Chris Carter and his .180 AVG., 63 OPS+, and 48 strikeouts in 111 at-bats isn’t exactly giving the Yankees much production at first base.
However, Austin could be back in the Bronx soon. As manager Joe Girardi told Bryan Hoch, he wanted Austin to get 50 minor league at-bats before returning to the big leagues. Currently, Austin has 48 at-bats under his belt.
Girardi was asked if Tyler Austin is “close.” Said that Austin didn’t have spring training, mentioned needing 50 at-bats. (20 so far)
— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) May 29, 2017
The 25-year-old hit .241/.300/.458 in 31 games in 2016 after being called up alongside Aaron Judge on August 13th. Austin mainly played first base, but also spent time in left and right field. His minor league experience at third base could also come in handy this season, as the Yankees figure out how to maximize production at the hot corner with Chase Headley in a disastrous slump.
With Greg Bird also returning from injury, both Baby Bombers have something to prove. Bird is still the starting first baseman, but will need to put his early season struggles behind him if he expects to keep his job. Austin was expected to battle Bird for the position in spring training, and we could see a similar competition unfold once both players are back on the big league roster.
