The New York Yankees say goodbye to free-agent shortstop Didi Gregorius, who agreed to a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Former New York Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius has agreed to a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies, per multiple reports.
The successor of a legend in Derek Jeter, Gregorius handled the opportunity with class and grace. His left-handed swing and smooth fielding quickly made him a fan favorite beginning in 2015. After being traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks, Sir Didi enjoyed a career resurgence offensively.
The news of the one-year deal was first reported by Joel Sherman of the New York Post.
#Phillies are in agreement with Didi Gregorius
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) December 10, 2019
Gregorius spent five seasons in the Bronx. He was a leader both on the field and in the locker room. In those five seasons, Didi slashed .269/.313/.429 with a 101 OPS+. He averaged just under 20 home runs per year and played solid defense when healthy.
The 29-year-old will join former Yankees manager Joe Girardi in Philly. With Gleyber Torres emerging as a stud, the Yankees are likely putting their faith in the 22-year-old as the future of the shortstop position. Gregorius was fun to watch in his five seasons, but the Yankees felt it was time to move on.
The hot stove is burning up right now with most awaiting the news of Gerrit Cole. But, the Yankees will now turn to Torres as the king of the infield with Sir Didi’s departure.