New York Yankees 3B Gio Urshela has proven throughout his career year in 2019 that there is a future for him in the Bronx.
The New York Yankees have dealt with a multitude of injuries throughout the 2019 season. Having players that can step in and make an impact is vital to those looking to go deep into the playoffs. For the Yankees, third baseman Gio Urshela has become one of the most important players on the roster.
Though the Yankees had planned to see Rookie of the Year runner-up Miguel Andujar man the hot corner, that didn’t happen. The 24-year-old wound up having season-ending shoulder surgery in May. This opened the door for Urshela to emerge.
While the Bronx Bombers have had several pleasant surprises, none might be bigger than what Urshela has done. In 95 games, Urshela is slashing .320/.367/.570 with 17 home runs, 61 RBIs and a wRC+ of 142. And though the defensive analytics don’t favor Urshela, he’s a steady impact player in the field.
With a surprising number of turnover on the roster due to injuries and some players going through old streaks, Urshela has been a steady force in the lineup. He’s been on fire as of late as one of the big hitters in the Yankees lineup.
Over his last 64 plate appearances, which dates back to July 22, Urshela has been on fire. He’s hitting .417 with a 1.420 OPS, eight home runs and 16 RBIs. Obviously, those numbers aren’t sustainable, but it shows just how much he’s been carrying the offense—among others.
“06/26/2018: Toronto Blue Jays designated Gio Urshela for assignment.” pic.twitter.com/DBNBmDNVVU
— Joe Randazzo (Bronx Pinstripes writer) (@deflategator) August 9, 2019
What has been a big topic of discussion now with Urshela is his future with the Yankees, especially with Andujar expected to return from his shoulder surgery in 2020. The 27-year-old has proven he can thrive in the Bronx, even hitting in the middle of the order.
With such a crowded infield that is expected to include the likes of D.J. LeMahieu, Gleyber Torres, Luke Voit and potentially Didi Gregorius, there is an interesting dilemma the Yankees have on their hands. Does Urshela’s emergence make Andujar—despite his talent—trade bait this offseason?
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It would be difficult to see the Yankees immediately giving Andujar the third base gig, especially since Urshela is a better fielder. If they decide to keep Andujar, they could begin rotating him around the diamond. That would most likely come at third and first base.
Urshela has been on fire for the majority of the season as he enjoys a career campaign and while the future presents an interesting question, he’s proving he can thrive in the Bronx.e