Since infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa was traded to the New York Yankees late last week, he hasn’t been shy about the fact that he grew up as a Yankees fan.
He posted a video of himself shaving before reporting to the Yankees’ training camp (he is happy to respect the organization’s no facial hair policy) and he has been smiling non-stop ever since he heard the news.
Reading general manager Brian Cashman’s words, it’s evident that, at least at the moment, he consider Kiner-Falefa the starting shortstop.
Here is what Cashman said about the trade, which also netted the Yankees third baseman Josh Donaldson and catcher Ben Rortvedt, per the New York Daily News:
“We feel by doing this trade we upgraded defensively and offensively at third and at shortstop and placed [Gleyber Torres] in a position that he’s best at: second base. So I think the infield side upgraded for the defense and on the catching side as well. So I think that the overall feel for us is that it’s settled a lot of interests on our end with one transaction, with one particular team.”
It’s clear the Yankees want him, and it’s clear that Kiner-Falefa has always considered Yankee Stadium his home.
He even posted a picture of himself in the stadium as a kid.
Og bleacher creature!!!! pic.twitter.com/yRotRlju1w
— Isiah Kiner-Falefa (@Isiahkf11) March 16, 2022
A Lifelong Dream
Not every player can say he defended the uniform they grew up rooting for, and Kiner-Falefa, barring a trade, will likely have bragging rights.
The Yankees still have time (and money) to bring in another shortstop.
Carlos Correa and Trevor Story remain in the market, and the should be interested because Kiner-Falefa profiles best as a utility player.
In 2021, he slashed .271/.312/.357 with eight homers, 20 stolen bases, and a .670 OPS.
He has contact and wheels, but his offensive upside is very limited.
He makes for a perfect utilityman, though, with his ability to play good defense at third base, shortstop, and even catcher.
Fans will surely enjoy watching a player with so much desire to play for the Yankees, regardless of his role.
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