The New York Yankees kick off their post-All-Star break season with a four-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday. In preparation, the team activated veteran infielder J.D. Davis from the injured list, who had recovered from a bout of stomach sickness.Yankees set to re-engage post-All-Star break with series versus Rays
Davis, 31, was acquired from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for Jordan Groshans and has failed to recapture his form this season. Despite a history of above-average offensive output over the last five years, his current season statistics are modest:.221 batting average,.293 on-base percentage, and.346 slugging percentage. He has four home runs and six RBIs, but his strikeout percentage has risen to 24%, with a walk rate of just 7.3%.
Review of Davis’ Recent Performance
Davis, who hit.248 with a.325 OBP last season, including 18 home runs and 69 RBIs, is gradually losing his offensive power. Despite multiple excellent seasons with the New York Mets, his recent performance has fallen short of his previous output.
Furthermore, Davis still provides some defensive usefulness at first base, with a.993 fielding percentage over 170 innings and only one error this season, but his performance at third base has significantly reduced. His 97 innings at third base this season with Oakland have not compensated for a -11 defensive runs saved total from 915.2 innings last year with the San Francisco Giants.Yankees’ Strategy at the Trade Deadline
While Davis is regarded as a capable depth piece for the Yankees, General Manager Brian Cashman sees the need for more significant upgrades. As the trade deadline approaches, Cashman is anticipated to be proactive in his search for an above-average infield talent to enhance the team’s lineup and give them a competitive advantage.
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