**Yankees’ Third Base Battle Heats Up: Cabrera vs. Peraza for the Hot Corner **
The New York Yankees entered spring training with a **glaring question mark at third base**, and as camp unfolds, the competition is narrowing to two young infielders: **Oswaldo Cabrera** and **Oswald Peraza**. Veteran **DJ LeMahieu**, once a cornerstone of the lineup, has been sidelined early in camp after taking months off from hitting this offseason. Reports suggest the Yankees are skeptical about his offensive impact moving forward, leaving the door wide open for Cabrera and Peraza to seize the opportunity.
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### **Oswaldo Cabrera: The Steady Glove**
At 25, Cabrera is known more for his **versatility** and **defensive reliability** than his bat. Last season, he slashed **.247/.296/.365** with eight homers and 36 RBIs over 326 plate appearances—solid but unspectacular numbers for an everyday starter. However, his **switch-hitting ability** and **steady defense** at third base make him a viable option.
– **Defensive Metrics**: Cabrera posted a **.970 fielding percentage** with **seven defensive runs saved** and **one out above average** over 566.1 innings at third base in 2023.
– **Value**: While he’s not a Gold Glove contender, his consistency in the field could be exactly what the Yankees need amid the uncertainty at the position.
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### **Oswald Peraza: The Patient Bat**
Peraza, 24, has been stuck in **baseball purgatory**, shuttling between Triple-A and the majors without a clear path to regular playing time. This spring, he’s already shown flashes of potential, notching a hit and a run in his first game action.
– **Triple-A Performance**: In 2023, Peraza hit **.246/.341/.394** with 13 homers and 60 RBIs, showcasing a more patient approach than Cabrera.
– **Defensive Metrics**: Over 300 innings at third base, Peraza’s advanced metrics were **break-even**—not elite, but serviceable enough to keep him in the mix.
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### **The Verdict: Two Good, But Not Great, Options**
Neither Cabrera nor Peraza is a **long-term solution** at third base, but both offer unique strengths that could help the Yankees in the short term. With LeMahieu’s future uncertain, the Yankees seem prepared to give both players an extended look this spring.
– **Cabrera**: Reliable defense and switch-hitting versatility.
– **Peraza**: A more patient bat and potential for growth.
Unless the Yankees make a **blockbuster trade** or sign a free agent, one of these two will likely be the Opening Day starter at third base.
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**Final Thought**: The Yankees’ third base battle is a microcosm of their offseason strategy—relying on youth and internal options while waiting for the right opportunity to upgrade. Whether it’s Cabrera’s glove or Peraza’s bat, the hot corner will be a storyline to watch all season long..
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