TAMPA — Whether veteran Jay Bruce remains in pinstripes will be decided by Thursday, when he can exercise the opt-out clause in his minor-league deal.
Now, it’s just up to Yankees general manager Brian Cashman whether he wants the 33-year-old slugger.
“I am the wrong person to ask when it comes to whether or not it’s going to be a difficult decision,” Bruce said after going 0-for-3 in a 2-1 loss to the Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota, Fla., on Saturday night. “I don’t really have control over that.”
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Bruce said he was happy with his showing. On Saturday night, he also added a nice catch in left field, going from deep in the gap due to the shift to the foul line.
“I know I came into spring training physically ready to go,” Bruce said, “feel like I’ve shown that I’m capable of playing multiple positions, my swing feels good.”
Manager Aaron Boone said, “It’s good to see that his versatility defensively has shown up this spring.”
Bruce entered spring training in a perceived competition for the Yankees’ final bench spot. When he signed in January, looked like he could be the Yankees’ fourth outfielder. Then Brett Gardner re-signed, dropping Bruce into a battle against fifth outfielder Mike Tauchman, utility man Derek Dietrich and possibly utility man Tyler Wade.
Bruce, seemingly fully healthy, hit .231 with two homers, three RBI and a .786 OPS. The Yankees like that he could back up the oft-banged-up Luke Voit at first base and that he could serve as insurance in either outfield corner. Perhaps most importantly, he brings a left-handed pop that is absent from the Yankees’ lineup, save for the switch-hitting Aaron Hicks.
The Yankees could also prefer the high-level defense Tauchman provides at all three outfield spots and his speed on the bases. Tauchman is out of minor-league options. Wade appears likely to have a spot locked up as Gleyber Torres’ primary backup at shortstop.
Bruce was itching to know his fate. He’ll make $1.35 million in the majors.
“So, we’ll see in five days,” he said. “I don’t know. I’m eager to find out. My goal is to be ready for the season and I hope to help the club.”
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Brendan Kuty may be reached at bkuty@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.