Yankees Exploring Infield Backup Plans

Boone looks to get McMahon, Bellinger reps at unfamiliar positions

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:11pm

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The New York Yankees are working on contingency plans for their infield during spring training, with manager Aaron Boone having Ryan McMahon and Cody Bellinger take reps at shortstop and first base respectively. This is in case the need arises during the regular season. While McMahon was relatively smooth at short, Boone noted he was a bit slow on a potential relay play. The team is also looking for relievers to grab the final bullpen spots, with Osvaldo Bido giving up a run on Friday and newcomer Yovanny Cruz hitting 100 mph.

Why it matters

The Yankees are taking a proactive approach to building roster depth and flexibility, which could prove crucial during the long MLB season when injuries and other issues often arise. Ensuring players are prepared to fill in at multiple positions is a smart strategy.

The details

Manager Aaron Boone had Ryan McMahon start at shortstop and Cody Bellinger at first base during spring training workouts on Friday. Boone is looking to get them reps at unfamiliar positions in case the need arises during the regular season. While McMahon was relatively smooth at short, Boone noted he was a tick slow on a potential relay play. The Yankees are also looking for relievers to claim the final bullpen spots, with Osvaldo Bido giving up a run on Friday and newcomer Yovanny Cruz hitting 100 mph on the radar gun.

  • The Yankees' spring training workouts took place on Friday, March 13, 2026.
  • The Yankees are scheduled to host the Phillies at 1:05 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026.

The players

Aaron Boone

The manager of the New York Yankees.

Ryan McMahon

A Yankees player who took reps at shortstop during spring training.

Cody Bellinger

A Yankees player who took reps at first base during spring training.

Osvaldo Bido

A Yankees relief pitcher who gave up a run during a spring training game on Friday.

Yovanny Cruz

A newcomer to the Yankees who hit 100 mph on the radar gun during a spring training appearance.

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What they’re saying

“Boone said he wants a reliever — or two — to grab the final spots in the bullpen.”

— Aaron Boone, Yankees Manager (nypost.com)

What’s next

The Yankees are scheduled to host the Phillies at 1:05 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, with Max Fried making another start for the Yankees.

The takeaway

The Yankees are taking a proactive approach to building roster depth and flexibility during spring training, ensuring key players like McMahon and Bellinger are prepared to fill in at multiple infield positions if needed during the regular season. This kind of preparation could prove crucial for the team as they look to navigate the long MLB schedule.