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Franchy Cordero Entering A Career Renaissance As Surprise Yankees Starter

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 11: Franchy Cordero #33 of the New York Yankees rounds the bases after hitting a three-run home run off Hunter Gaddis #33 of the Cleveland Guardians during the third inning at Progressive Field on April 11, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Ron Schwane/Getty Images)

In just eight games as a member of the New York Yankees, slugging outfielder Franchy Cordero has made an immediate impact. The journeyman has discovered a sudden spark to earn his way into one of MLB’s most stacked lineups.

“It’s amazing,” Cordero said. “It’s amazing to be able to contribute. I’m really happy with the results I’m getting right now.”

Several weeks ago, it seemed like Cordero might be nearing the end of his time as an everyday player in the major leagues when he failed to make the Baltimore Orioles’ Opening Day roster. The Yankees signed him to a one-year deal, but even the coaching staff could not have possibly predicted his recent string of performances.

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“He’s been big for us,” manager Aaron Boone told reporters after a game against the Guardians. “He hits them like the big boys. He mishit that ball, and [it still] went out.”

In just eight games, Cordero has hit four home runs and driven in 11 runs, helping to propel the Yankees to an 8-4 record to begin the season. He is currently batting .280 and will continue to receive playing time for as long as Josh Donaldson and Harrison Bader remain sidelined with injuries.

“You never want injuries, obviously, but it creates an opportunity for some guys to carve out a role for themselves while guys are down,” Boone said. “It gives you a better idea of what you have going forward.”

Cordero is far from the only power hitter in New York’s lineup this season, as reigning American League MVP Aaron Judge is also currently joined by Giancarlo Stanton, Anthony Rizzo and D.J. LeMahieu. Second baseman Gleyber Torres is currently batting .371 and is among the league leaders in batting average.

Even in the face of two outfielder injuries, the Yankees have managed to compensate well by adding Cordero to an already-powerful lineup. It is unclear what his role will look like when the team’s usual starters return to the fold, but this diamond in the rough has already paid for himself and then some.