Brett Gardner on Tyler Wade: he reminds me of me, but he has a lot more talent

Tyler Wade is one of a handful of players trying to crack the Yankees' Big League roster. He, along with non-roster invites Danny Espinosa and Jace Peterson, are battling super prospect Gleyber Torres for the opening at second base in the Bronx. One thing that gives Wade the upper hand over the others? Praise from the longest tenured Yankee.

"He has a lot of talent and fits right into our camp. He kind of reminds me of me as a younger player a little bit, but he has a lot more talent,’’ Brett Gardner told George King of the New York Post Wednesday. "He has the ability to control the bat and is a little bigger and stronger than me and he can drive the ball.

"His time with us last year and his time here in big league camp has really improved him and has helped him develop into an everyday player. I think he can do a real good job of being an everyday player as soon as Opening Day,’’ Gardner said. “He has a lot of tools, puts the bat on the ball and can really, really run."

When Wade heard of Gardner's comments, he was sure to give credit to number 11.

"I have always looked up to Gardy, from Day one he has taken me under his wing. Having a guy of his caliber and the success he has had at the Major League level, that is an amazing compliment."

While his skill set makes him valuable anywhere on the diamond, Wade hopes to win the starting second base job.

"I can play all over, but right now I am focused on winning an everyday job," Wade said. "I would do anything to help the team, but I am focused on winning a job."

Garnder isn't the only one singing the 23-year-old's praises either. His skipper has taken notice as well.

"Tyler Wade continues to be an absolute spark whenever he plays. He does a lot of good things on the baseball field," Aaron Boone said.

Will Wade be good enough to celebrate some Gardy parties in the Bigs in 2018? We'll have to wait and see.