ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 02: Oswald Peraza #91 of the New York Yankees looks on during batting practice before a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on September 02, 2022 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone found the worst possible way to debut top prospect Oswald Peraza.
The New York Yankees expanded their rosters for the final month of the seaosn, and decided to call up their No. 3 prospect Oswald Peraza. Considering he is also one of the league’s 100 best prospects, one would imagine Peraza would get some sort of grand debut. Like a start at shortstop at Yankee Stadium, or for the team’s pivotal game against the rival Tampa Bay Rays.
Instead, Yankees manager Aaron Boone found the worst possible way to debut the young prospect. With the team down 9-0 in the top of the ninth inning, Peraza was brought into the game and stepped into the batter’s box with two outs on the board.
Peraza struck out on three pitches to end the game.
Yankees: Aaron Boone found worst possible way to debut Oswald Peraza
Can you think of a worse spot to debut one of the organization’s best prospect?
Prior to the game, Boone said that Isiah Kiner-Falefa would still remain the team’s starting shortstop despite Peraza’s call-up. But, Boone did say that Peraza would get some opportunities.
The Yankees did end up losing 9-0 to their division rivals, and saw their first-place lead drop to five games. Boone said after the loss that the team’s performance was “embarrassing” and “hopefully, one of those rock-bottom situations.” The Yankees have spiraled out of control ever since returning from the All-Star break, and things may not be getting any better, as their offensive struggles continue.
There is some good news for Peraza, though. He will be receiving his first major league start at shortstop on Saturday, Sept. 3 against the Rays, and will bat eighth in the batting order.