Alex Verdugo, the Yankees’ offseason acquisition, has had a slow start to the season in terms of offensive performance. However, manager Aaron Boone remains optimistic and believes that Verdugo is on the cusp of finding consistency at the plate. Recent developments suggest that Boone’s instincts may be correct.
In a recent game against the Marlins, Verdugo hit his first home run as a Yankee, giving the team an early lead. The solo shot to right field was met with enthusiastic celebration from his teammates, a trend that started in Arizona after hitting his first home run with the Yankees. Verdugo expressed his love for the barking and excitement from his teammates, highlighting the fun and camaraderie it brings to the game.
Comparing Verdugo’s performance to his first 11 games with the Red Sox last year, he has fallen short. In those 11 games, he recorded 14 hits and hit .318 with one home run and five RBIs. This season, however, in his first 38 at-bats, he hit only .211 with a .611 OPS. Despite this, Boone remains confident in Verdugo’s abilities and believes that he will soon find his stride.
Verdugo has shown glimpses of his potential earlier this season, including a sacrifice fly on Opening Day against the Astros and a two-run home run in the 10th inning against the Diamondbacks. However, it wasn’t until a recent game against the Marlins that he had his best offensive performance. He went 3-for-3, including a double in the Yankees’ six-run fourth inning. This breakout game seems to have boosted Verdugo’s confidence and helped him see things click.
Verdugo acknowledges that there were some good at-bats even in the first few games of the season, but he was mishitting the ball. As someone who prides himself on making contact, he found it frustrating to make weak contact when his swing wasn’t right. However, he has now started to trust the process and let the ball travel, leading to better results and improved swings.
Overall, Verdugo’s offensive improvement is a positive sign for the Yankees. While he may have had a slow start, his recent performance suggests that he is on the right track. With Boone’s confidence in his abilities and a supportive team behind him, Verdugo is poised to make a significant impact for the Yankees as the season progresses.
