Yankees lose spark plug as Matt Carpenter signs with Padres
As the sighs of relief, and echoes of cheers fade from the re-signing of Aaron Judge, Brian Cashman, Hal Steinbrenner, and the Yankees have a fresh issue on their plate.
Fill the void left from a departing fan favorite.
San Diego has inked a one-year deal with Matt Carpenter, posing a new problem for his old team in New York.
All good things must come to an end, but many wish Carpenter's stay in the Bronx was longer.
Words can't describe the impact that the 37-year-old utility man had on both the clubhouse, and the fans of the 2022 Yankees, but a standing ovation in his postseason return from injury begins to tell the tale.
His 15 home runs in 47 regular season games were unimaginable, especially coming from a player whose career was widely-considered finished.
Prior to signing with the Yankees in 2022, Carpenter was playing for Texas Rangers Triple-A affiliate, the Round Rock Express, in an effort to reform his swing.
After a timely hot-streak at the plate, as injuries plagued the Yankees, his efforts were rewarded, and the rest is history.
Watch: All 15 of Matt Carpenter's 2022 home runs
For more than two months — before a foul ball fractured his foot and ended his regular season — Carpenter made life miserable for opposing pitchers, batting .305 during his stint in pinstripes.
But, his biggest impact came in the clubhouse, where his experience earned him the trust of Aaron Boone, and his veteran presence inspired younger players.
Carpenter's historic run with New York will be remembered by Yankees fans forever.
On the other hand, the hole in the lineup and space on the bench will be felt immediately by his former teammates and manager.
The short porch in right field at Yankee Stadium has always encouraged Cashman and the Steinbrenners to acquire powerful left-handed batters.
Carpenter provided that, and so much more. With added versatility, and the ability to play multiple positions besides DH, his shoes are even bigger to fill.
As free agents fly off the market, and the clock ticks closer to Opening Day 2023, time is running out for the Yankees to find their new offensive spark plug.
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