The New York Yankees have been no strangers to roster moves this spring, and the latest involves infielder Jorbit Vivas, who was optioned back to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre after a brief call-up. The decision came as outfielder Trent Grisham returned from paternity leave, necessitating Vivas’ return to the minors. However, despite the disappointment of being sent back down, Vivas has been putting together a case that could force the Yankees’ front office to reconsider their infield depth.
Since his demotion to Triple-A, Vivas hasn’t missed a beat. The 23-year-old infielder has been scorching hot with the bat, slashing .342/.432/.493 through 20 games. In addition to his impressive batting average, Vivas has already clubbed two home runs and driven in 14 RBIs. But it’s not just his power that stands out—Vivas’ plate discipline has been nothing short of remarkable. His strikeout rate sits at just 4.5%, an astoundingly low figure at the Triple-A level, while his 11.2% walk rate shows his keen ability to work counts and reach base consistently.
Vivas’ offensive numbers in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre aren’t just about getting on base; they speak to an overall refinement of his game. His 153 wRC+ indicates he has been 53% better than the average Triple-A hitter, suggesting that his dominance in the minor leagues is more than a hot streak. What sets Vivas apart from other young prospects is his ability to hit for both average and power while maintaining excellent control over the strike zone. For a Yankees team searching for a more consistent offensive output, Vivas’ numbers cannot be ignored for long.
The Yankees’ current infield situation is a bit fluid. Oswald Peraza and Oswaldo Cabrera are handling third base duties in the absence of DJ LeMahieu, who is still recovering from an injury and wrapping up a rehab assignment. LeMahieu’s return could further complicate the picture, as he is expected to be deployed against left-handed pitchers. This potential logjam leaves the Yankees with some difficult decisions to make about the future of their infield rotation, particularly when considering the arrival of a player like Vivas, who has shown he could be a game-changer.
Vivas has quietly flown under the radar since the Yankees acquired him from the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024, a move that didn’t make headlines at the time. The trade was seen as a minor transaction, but in hindsight, it looks like the Yankees may have snagged a potential diamond in the rough. In fact, Vivas’ performance this year may just be the breakout they were hoping for when they made the deal.
Although his minor league career has had its ups and downs, this season, Vivas seems to have found his groove. His improved pitch recognition, combined with his ability to hit for solid line-drive power, has been a clear indication that he is maturing as a hitter. His defensive play has also improved, as he’s been a clean presence at second and third base, showing the versatility the Yankees covet in their infielders.
What’s more exciting is how Vivas’ style of play fits into the modern game. In an era where strikeouts are often on the rise, Vivas has bucked the trend by making consistent contact. His low strikeout rate and ability to get on base at an elite clip could be an invaluable asset in any lineup, especially a Yankees team that has struggled at times with offensive consistency. As the team looks to strengthen its infield depth, Vivas’ profile stands out as someone who could make a significant contribution sooner rather than later.
While Vivas’ potential could make him a bench piece or even a platoon player, the real intrigue comes in the longer term. If his performance in Triple-A continues to be as dominant as it has been, it might be difficult for the Yankees to keep him out of the major league lineup. Whether as a fill-in for injuries, a pinch-hitter, or as part of a platoon situation, Vivas could carve out a regular role on the big league squad. His well-rounded skill set could make him an ideal candidate for such opportunities.
There’s also the reality that injuries and slumps are inevitable in a long MLB season. As we’ve seen time and time again, the Yankees’ depth will likely be tested over the course of the year. If the team encounters another injury or needs a jolt to their infield play, Vivas’ strong performance in Triple-A will make him one of the first names to consider for a promotion.
Vivas isn’t just some flash-in-the-pan minor league hitter. His consistency, combined with his work ethic and ability to adjust, indicates that he could become a key piece of the Yankees’ future. The front office will need to make tough decisions as the season progresses, but there’s no denying that Vivas is putting himself in a position to be a part of those conversations. If the Yankees are looking for a player with both offensive potential and infield flexibility, Vivas has made it clear that he deserves a shot.
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Vivas’ rise is how it highlights the Yankees’ growing depth in their farm system. For years, the Yankees have been criticized for not developing enough homegrown talent. But with players like Vivas showing potential, it’s clear that the tide may be turning. If the Yankees continue to develop players like Vivas and others in their system, it could give the organization more flexibility in trades or in building a sustainable long-term core.
In the end, while Vivas’ brief stint in the majors may have been short-lived, it was a sign of things to come. His performance in the minors is undeniable, and it’s only a matter of time before the Yankees take another serious look at his potential. Whether as a bench piece or an everyday player, Jorbit Vivas is certainly someone to watch closely as the 2025 season unfolds. With his combination of offensive firepower, defensive reliability, and high baseball IQ, he could be just the spark the Yankees need as they strive for success this season and beyond.