After being acquired as part of a three-team trade on Tuesday night, Brandon Drury is set to join his new team on Thursday. The 25-year-old is scheduled to participate in his first team workout at the Yankees spring training complex in Tampa, Florida.
Before Drury even takes the field as a Yankee, it appears that the organization has an idea of what role the young infielder will play moving forward.
General manager Brian Cashman spoke to the media, and discussed the acquisition of Drury. J. Scott Butherus of MLB.com wrote about what Cashman had to say about his newly-acquired infielder.
Throughout his three seasons in the big leagues, Drury has used his versatility to play multiple positions. The majority of his playing time has come at second base, but he has also played some first base, third base and both corner outfield positions.
According to Cashman, the Yankees initial plan is to have Drury play third base, the position he played throughout the minor leagues. Due to his offensive potential and versatility, Cashman added that the Yankees will look to get him in their lineup as often as possible.
Drury will be a valuable asset defensively. Although the Yankees plan on him playing third base, his versatility gives manager Aaron Boone some different options on a daily basis. If the Yankees have some injuries (hopefully not), Drury has the ability to fill the void at multiple positions if needed.
His defense and athleticism stands out, but Brandon Drury‘s offense could be just as valuable to the Yankees lineup this season. The 25-year-old has posted a career slash line of .271/.319/.448, and has shown the ability to hit for power against big league pitching.
The move also allows the Yankees the opportunity to be patient with some of their top young prospects. As Miguel Andujar and Gleyber Torres battle for big league roster spots, the organization could now take their time in developing the two players.
Overall, Drury will be a valuable asset for this Yankees team, and it will be interesting to see how he is utilized. Depending on different circumstances, Drury could be a one-position player, or he might end up being a “jack-of-all-trades” for the Bronx Bombers.
