Time might be running short for Oswald Peraza in the Yankees pinstripes, and the emergence of a new infielder threatens to push him out.
Once considered a foundational piece of the Yankees’ infield future, Oswald Peraza now finds himself fighting for roster relevance as another talented prospect gains momentum. With Jorbit Vivas making an unmistakable impression in Triple-A, the Yankees face an impending roster crunch that could push Peraza toward the exit door.
Peraza struggles to secure his Yankees place
Entering spring training, Peraza was expected to compete for the vacant third base position. However, the competition didn’t unfold in his favor. Despite posting disappointing spring numbers — a mere .160 batting average with just one extra-base hit — he landed on the roster primarily due to DJ LeMahieu’s injury situation.
Initially, Peraza showed signs of capitalizing on his opportunity, beginning the season with some promising at-bats. Yet similar to previous campaigns, his early promise quickly dissolved into inconsistency. As of Thursday, he’s managed only 5-for-23 with a single homer and one walk — statistics that hardly inspire confidence on a Yankees roster built with championship expectations.
With LeMahieu’s return on the horizon and Peraza lacking Minor League options, the front office confronts a challenging decision. Designating Peraza for assignment might emerge as the only practical solution to create roster space. It’s a stark reality for a player once projected as a fixture in the Yankees’ long-term plans.
Jorbit Vivas forces the issue
While Peraza battles for relevance, Jorbit Vivas is doing precisely the opposite — demanding consideration through exceptional play.
Currently ranked 20th among Yankees prospects, the 24-year-old has been exceptional at Triple-A. Through 58 at-bats, Vivas has compiled an impressive .328/.414/.500 slash line, including two home runs, two stolen bases, and a .914 OPS. His offensive profile centers on superior contact ability and refined plate discipline. With nine walks against just four strikeouts, Vivas demonstrates the batting approach that the Yankees’ current infield configuration notably lacks.
Despite receiving minimal attention during spring training — where he hit an impressive 11-for-26 — Vivas is proving that his underwhelming 2024 performance likely stemmed from injury. A broken orbital bone from a hit-by-pitch last spring derailed his previous season. Now fully recovered, he’s performing with determination and reliability.
Vivas vs. Peraza vs. Cabrera: Numbers tell the story
The performance comparison between Vivas and the Yankees’ existing third-base candidates heavily favors the Triple-A standout. Peraza has registered just one home run this season, while Oswaldo Cabrera — currently occupying the starting role at third — has yet to connect for a round-tripper.
Meanwhile, Vivas has already tallied two homers and draws walks more frequently than both combined. His switch-hitting capability adds versatility, with his left-handed swing potentially thriving in Yankee Stadium’s hitter-friendly confines.
Beyond power metrics, Vivas’ plate discipline truly distinguishes him from the competition. His contact skills and on-base ability represent precisely what the Yankees’ infield needs — particularly during a season where offensive consistency remains elusive.
Vivas’ defensive questions could give Pereza time
If there’s a limitation to Vivas’ case for promotion, it centers on his defensive capabilities. While experienced at third base, scouting reports suggest his glove work and arm strength better suit second base. At the hot corner, Vivas has committed his share of miscues — though this season has shown marked improvement.
Nevertheless, with Jazz Chisholm Jr. entrenched at second base and the Yankees seeking offensive production at third, the organization might accept some defensive growing pains if Vivas continues his offensive excellence.
Though not profiling as an ideal long-term third baseman, his offensive upside could earn him an opportunity, especially if current alternatives fail to produce consistently.
Pereza under pressure to save career
What makes this situation particularly pressing is Peraza’s exhausted Minor League options. Once DJ LeMahieu rejoins the active roster, the Yankees must make a personnel decision. Should they retain Cabrera and promote Vivas, Peraza could face designation for assignment and subsequent placement on waivers.
Considering his age and former prospect status, Peraza might attract interest from other team — but it would represent a significant decline for a player once envisioned as a cornerstone Yankee infielder.
As May progresses, the Yankees’ infield configuration is becoming increasingly defined — and for Oswald Peraza, the outlook appears increasingly uncertain. Jorbit Vivas’ emergence, coupled with Peraza’s inconsistent production, could soon force the once-promising infielder off the 26-man roster entirely.
In the hyper-competitive environment of the 2025 Yankees, performance dictates opportunity. And currently, the statistics clearly indicate who deserves the next chance to contribute.
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