Opportunity Knocks

During yesterday’s spring training game Francisco Cervelli was injured after fouling a ball off his left foot.  When the injury first happened, Cervelli didn’t think it was a big deal and wanted to continue playing.  Girardi pulled him instead and the Yankees mandated an MRI.  The MRI has come back inconclusive.  Today’s lineup includes Montero as the starting catcher and Girardi has said that Cervelli’s injury will keep him out of the lineup for at least a few days.

Its unfortunate to see an everyday type of player like Cervelli get injured in spring training, but it may be a blessing in disguise.  There has been some considerable discussions as to whether Cervelli or Montero will be the back-up catcher to Russell Martin this season.  Girardi has been reluctant to say much, but it has been playing out as though both Montero and Cervelli are competing against one another for that spot.

Personally, I would like to see Montero make the big league roster this season as I have never been impressed with Cervelli.  There is also something genuinely exciting to see a highly touted prospect like Montero play in the big leagues.  Montero was ranked #4 prospect by Baseball America.  This is  a great opportunity for Montero since he would be the back up to a quality catcher like Russell Martin.  He wouldn’t necessarily have to play every game of the season and the Yankees could limit him to about 50 – 70 games.   This is similar to how Jorge Posada began his career.  Posada didn’t start 162 games his first few years, but instead had a gradual increase from about 50 games in his first season.

Moreover, Montero would have an opportunity to work with Martin as well as Posada to develop his catching skills.  Posada is a natural behind the plate, and I would not be surprised to see him as a coach or manager some day.  This would be a perfect opportunity for Posada to develop Montero into the starting catcher one day.

Although Cervelli worked out all winter with Cano in the Dominican Republic, Cervelli is not a power hitter.  On the other hand, Montero has terrific offensive numbers that can’t be ignored.  His is a power hitting catcher (.289 BA in 2010)with a strong slugging percentage (.517 in 2010 and .562 in 2009).  His 2010 numbers were a little bit lower than they should be due to a slow start in AAA last year. If Montero starts the season with the Yankees, we can count on a power hitter in the bottom of the lineup.  Most importantly though, Montero gives the Yankees some youth, enthusiasm and hope for the next few years.