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New York Yankees third baseman David Adams has only appeared in six games in the big leagues. With that being said, he has dominated at the plate in which he has recorded at least one hit in all but one contest. Does Adams have what it takes to become New York’s permanent third baseman for many years to come?
Third baseman Alex Rodriguez has yet to make an appearance this season, while Kevin Youkilis continues to suffer from a spinal sprain. The 37-year-old Rodriguez will not make his 2013 Major League Baseball debut until sometime after the All-Star break, and even then, it is unknown how productive he truly will be. The aging veteran may have four years left on his mega-contract, but the Yankees must figure out a replacement now before injuries begin to take their toll.
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Meanwhile, the 34-year-old Youkilis could return as early as next week. He posted a .333 batting average with two home runs and seven RBI in 48 at-bats before he was placed on the 15-day disabled list. Even though his numbers are productive, his future with the Yankees after the season is unclear.
Adams is batting .318 with one home run, two RBI, two doubles, three runs and a .348 on-base percentage in 22 at-bats. Even though it is a rather small sample size to be declaring him New York’s newest rising star, there is no question he can hit.
The 26-year-old is a solid defensive player and had a lot of success at the plate in the minors. In fact, he batted .316 with three home runs, 12 RBI and six doubles in 98 at-bats in Triple-A this season before he was called up. The .296 career hitter is not going to hit the ball over the fence a lot, but he will consistently get on base and knock runs in.
The good news is the Yankees can give Adams a legitimate opportunity without going all in. If Adams prevails and continues to play at a high level then New York has found themselves a winner. If his batting average quickly drops then they still have other players to fall back on. Regardless, it would be wise for the organization to allow him to continue starting to see where it takes the team.
Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
