Yup, Bleeding Yankee Blue has already reported the great news about Andrew Velazquez, but I wanted to offer my own flair on this great news!
I love it when the Yankees bring back a guy who made an impression not only on the team but the fan base. Local Bronx hero Andrew Velazquez will be fighting for a roster spot this spring now that the Yankees have brought him back in for round two as a Bomber with a minor league deal on Friday.
According to NJ.com, "Velazquez has bounced around a lot in his 13 professional seasons, mostly as a minor leaguer. A career .189 hitter with 12 homers, 40 steals and 624 plate appearances, the switch-hitter played 125 of his 275 games in 2022 with the Angels. In 223 games at shortstop, he has a .973 fielding percentage that is higher than the .971 Anthony Volpe compiled playing short for the Yankees the last two seasons as a Gold Glove winner in 2023 and Gold Glove finalist in 2024."
With all of the transitions and trades this off season, Velazquez will likely start the season with Scranton-Wilkes Barre, which is perfectly fine. He is an excellent fielder who has filled the shoes of Gleyber Torres when he went to the IL back in 2021. Although a short stop, he certainly earned the title of journeyman and could fill in as needed, adding depth to the Yankee roster.
As the first acquisition of the New Year, Velazquez represents promise and brings in the baseball acumen that has been lacking in the club over the last several years. Sometimes you have to go elsewhere, bring what you have learned, evolve as a player and come back home and contribute at a higher level. At least, that is the hope. No, he doesn't have the big batting average, but maybe this year, his hitting will catch up with his stellar defense. And a hometown crowd could certainly be a boost for Velazquez.
The next steps for Velazquez after finishing up a stint in the Puerto Rico Winter Leagues - is heading to Tampa to compete in the 2025 spring training experience, an invite that came with his signing. And from there, who knows. But I will tell you what, it is great to have the Fordham Prep alum back with the Yankee organization. Good luck, Squid, here's hoping you have a great spring.
ALSO READ: THE RETURN OF VELAZQUEZ!
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