The Yankees' Second Base Dilemma: A Deep Dive into the Current Landscape
The Yankees' second base situation entering 2026 presents a unique challenge. While the position lacks star power, the team has a coveted asset in Jazz Chisholm Jr., who's already making waves. With a 30/30 season under his belt, Chisholm Jr. is a trade rumor this offseason, but the Yankees should consider extending his contract or retaining him long-term. The team's infield depth is a mix of quality backups and second-division starters, with Jose Caballero, Amed Rosario, and Oswaldo Cabrera. However, the real concern lies in the lack of top prospects at second base within the organization.
None of the Yankees' top prospects are primary second basemen, and the middle-infield depth on the roster is already well-established. This makes it unlikely for minor leaguers to crack the Bronx's lineup this season. Jorbit Vivas, the only player with a plausible shot at a depth bench role, had a disappointing showing in the MLB, slashing .161/.266/.250 with just one home run in 66 plate appearances. His performance in Triple-A last year was impressive, but he'll need to prove himself at the MLB level to avoid being labeled a 'Quad-A' player.
The organization has a few promising prospects in Owen Cobb and Enmanuel Tejeda, who've been active in Winter Ball and the Arizona Fall League, respectively. Cobb, acquired as a free agent in 2024, showed promise in the Australian Winter League but falls short of age-to-level expectations. Tejeda, a well-rounded infielder with a mature approach, has also fallen behind expectations, remaining in Low-A despite his impressive plate discipline. Tejeda's injury-shortened season in the AFL, where he slashed .254/.412/.358 with 16 walks and 19 strikeouts, highlights the need for further development.
The final piece of the puzzle includes Connor McGinnis, Santiago Gomez, and Gabriel Terrero, who are expected to start the year in High-A or Low-A. McGinnis, drafted in the 10th round of the 2025 MLB Draft, had a rough start in his pro debut but will likely begin the season in Hudson Valley. Gomez and Terrero, both with limited experience in the states, face similar challenges in their development. The prospect pipeline at second base is not abundant, but the team's major-league depth at the position provides a safety net. As long as Jazz Chisholm Jr. remains healthy, the Yankees are well-positioned for the 2026 season and beyond.
