The New York Yankees are gearing up for the 2025 season with a freshly announced 26-man roster as they prepare to face the Milwaukee Brewers on Opening Day. The roster features a mix of promising talent and experienced players, with a few surprises that have emerged from spring training.
Among the notable inclusions are shortstop Oswald Peraza and infielder/outfielder Pablo Reyes, who secured the final two bench spots after impressive performances during camp. Peraza, who is out of minor league options, will serve as a backup infielder, while Reyes brings a right-handed bat to a predominantly left-handed lineup. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed his satisfaction with Reyes, stating, “Really impressed with what I’ve seen from Pablo; there’s life in his bat.”
As the Yankees finalize their roster, the team has also faced significant injury challenges. A total of eight players have been placed on the injured list, including key contributors like designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton and infielder DJ LeMahieu. Stanton, who is dealing with elbow tendinitis, will start the season on the 10-day IL, while LeMahieu is recovering from a left calf strain. Boone acknowledged the impact of these injuries, saying, “We’re looking for external upgrades for our bench.”
The Yankees' pitching staff has also been affected, with ace Gerrit Cole sidelined until 2026 due to Tommy John surgery. Fellow right-hander Luis Gil is expected to be out until July with a lat strain. In light of these setbacks, the Yankees have added depth to their bullpen, including left-hander Brent Headrick and rookie right-hander Yoendrys Gomez, both of whom made the Opening Day roster after strong showings in spring training.
Gomez, who worked 11.1 scoreless innings over seven Grapefruit League outings, has proven himself as a reliable option for the Yankees. Headrick, despite a spring ERA of 5.40, brings valuable strikeout potential, having fanned 18 batters in 11.2 innings. The competition for the bullpen spots was intense, with Headrick earning his place over veteran righty Yerry De Los Santos, who had a standout spring with a 1.93 ERA.
The Yankees have also opted to carry three catchers on their roster: Austin Wells, J.C. Escarra, and Ben Rice. This decision comes as a response to Stanton’s injury, allowing Rice to fill the designated hitter spot while also providing backup at first base. Escarra, making his MLB debut at age 29, has impressed the coaching staff with his performance this spring.
In the infield, the Yankees will rely on a mix of veterans and young talent, including first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr., and shortstop Anthony Volpe. Oswaldo Cabrera and the aforementioned Peraza and Reyes round out the infield, with the latter two likely to share playing time against left-handed pitchers.
As the Yankees prepare for their season opener, the excitement is palpable. They will take the field at Yankee Stadium on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 3:05 p.m. against the Brewers. With a roster that reflects both the challenges and opportunities of the current moment, the Yankees are poised to make a strong statement as they embark on their quest for another championship.
In conclusion, while the Yankees face a series of hurdles with injuries and roster adjustments, the blend of youth and experience on their Opening Day roster sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead. Fans will be watching closely as the team looks to overcome these challenges and capitalize on their strengths in the coming games.
