The New York Yankees are fighting to stay in contention for the American League East and improvement is needed from all sides of the roster. After the team opted not to make any moves at trade deadlines, they are remaining faithful in the current talent to push through into the playoffs. The biggest question mark is the play of Stephen Drew, but a solid performance on Wednesday night shows there is hope with the infielder.
The Yankees had every opportunity to replace Drew and they opted not to. They stayed put and denied interest in Chase Utley, Jose Reyes and Martin Prado. Many questioned the commitment in the struggling infielder, but he is determined to prove he can be a quality asset to the team. Drew is improving from his .150 batting average. A four-hit game against the Atlanta Braves and a three-run home run against the Boston Red Sox has things looking up.
"It's good to finally have some confidence back," Drew said, via ESPN.com. "That's a good feeling. I know what I can do. I know what's there. It's just a matter of putting it together and staying consistent. I've had some good at-bats and some frustrating at-bats through the year, and here we are now. I've kept my head up the whole time, and worked at it, and it's a good feeling to be hitting the ball the way I am this past week."
Drew is well-aware his replacement is waiting in the wings. Rob Refsnyder was called up at the start of September and many believe it is only a matter of time before he makes his way into the starting lineup and replaces Drew. For now the Yankees are confident in the veteran, but one slip up could mean he is replaced.
The Yankees are keeping their eye on young talent to build for the future. The tam is reaping the benefits of not trading Luis Severino this season as he could be the long-term fix to the struggles of CC Sabathia. According to the New York Post, the Yankees have concerns regarding the pitchers health outlook for the future. The rise of Severino proves they can afford to put the veteran in the bull pen if needed. The same can be said for Greg Bird who is replacing Mark Teixeira with injury. The young talent could begin to take over.
