URSHELA VS. ANDUJAR: THE BATTLE OF 2020

Source: ESPN

With third base Gio Urshela's position to lose, spring training 2020 is setting up for another battle for the hot corner, but this time it's third base instead of first base.  Miguel Andujar is back to full strength and intends on competing for a place on this team.  He's ramping up for a big 2020 and the Yankees would love to see him back contributing to their goal: win the World Series!

"It wouldn’t be a surprise if Andujar, who has plans to arrive in Tampa in early January and begin working out, at least works at first base during spring training or plays there during the exhibition games. The Yankees love Andujar’s bat, however, and the fact Urshela has two options remaining is a safety net in case Andujar’s shoulder becomes a problem or he suffers another injury," reported the NY Post.

Source: YES Network

Recall that Gio Urshela's value to last year's team was undeniably huge let alone surprising. Urshela hit .314 with 21 homers, 74 RBIs and posted a .889 OPS in 132 games this past season. His commitment was unrelenting, despite being hit by pitches and diving to make extraordinary plays at third base.  But was his performance at the plate a fluke?  Much like Luke Voit had to last year, Urshela will have to prove he belongs in the line up everyday.

"Several teams who have shown interest in trading for Andujar — he turns 25 in March — have been getting a vibe the Yankees aren’t going to rush into a deal unless they are blown away by what would come back," reported the NY Post.

I am a big fan of Gio Urshela but he has to perform at the level he did last year to be in the line up everyday.  Andujar will need to work hard to keep his position, but his bat alone may keep him in the line up, even if first base becomes his new place in the infield.

Source: USA Today

With the Winter Solstice behind us and the days starting to get longer, Spring Training 2020 will be here before we know it.  Having both Urshela and Andujar at their best will make the Yankees even stronger as they head into April.

Two words: Stay Healthy and don't take your young bodies for granted.  Oh yea, and may both guys win!

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof