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Yankees’ Spring Training: The NYY Campys
As the Yankees’ spring training winds down, it’s time for the semi-annual end of camp trophies, a collection of the best performances, not-so-great moments, and offbeat observations and happenings from almost six weeks of Florida spring training. Here are the winners of the NYY Campys:
Comeback Kid award: Michael King
Despite fracturing his right elbow last season, King completed his fifth scoreless outing this spring, with 2.1 innings against the Washington Nationals. This award recognizes his perseverance and resilience.
The ’96 Derek Jeter award: Anthony Volpe
The 21-year-old from Watchung exceeded expectations as he competes for the regular shortstop job, putting himself on a fast track to the Bronx. This award recognizes his determination and potential to become the “Jeter” of his generation.
Shining prospect: Jasson Dominguez
The powerful switch-hitting center field prospect tied for the club lead with four homers in Grapefruit League play, batting .455 (10-for-22) in 11 games. This award recognizes his potential to make a significant impact on the Yankees in the coming seasons.
PGA award: Nestor Cortes
The lefty pulled the upset over high-caliber golfing teammates such as Aaron Hicks and Josh Donaldson, winning the Yankees’ “PopStroke” tournament early in camp. This award recognizes his abilities both on and off the field.
All-Pinstripe award: Gerrit Cole
The ace did not wear gray pants all spring, making all his exhibition starts at Steinbrenner Field, a coveted feat partly due to luck and veteran status. This award recognizes his consistency and veteran leadership.
Bad Timing award: Frankie Montas
The right-hander arrived at spring training after arthroscopic surgery to clean up his labrum, sidelining him until at least the second half and possibly costing him the season. This award recognizes the unfortunate timing of his injury.
Friday the 13th award: March 9
On that date, GM Brian Cashman announced that pitchers Carlos Rodon, Tommy Kahnle, and Lou Trivino would start the season on the injured list. Later, it was revealed that center fielder Harrison Bader would also be out with an oblique strain. This award recognizes the dark humor in a day filled with bad news.
Non-Roster Surprise award: Willie Calhoun
The lefty-hitting outfield option batted over .300, with a homer and six walks over his first 17 games. He has a chance to make the club. This award recognizes his unexpected performance as a non-roster player.
Still Got It award: Clay Holmes
After mixed results with his sinker in the second half last year, Holmes has a better handle on the pitch, which produced a dominant first half in 2023, making him a first-time All-Star and the club’s regular closer. This award recognizes Holmes’ comeback and consistent performance.
Camp Quip award: Aaron Boone
Manager Aaron Boone joked, “Are you guys going to start taking up other hobbies?” after the Yankees’ first experiment with the new pitch clock resulted in a two-hour, 14-minute exhibition opener. This award recognizes Boone’s humor and ability to keep the team loose.
First Impression award: Andres Chaparro
The right-handed-hitting first baseman batted .345 with four homers and leading the club with 11 RBI. This award recognizes his potential to make an impact on the club in the future.
Talking Baseball award: Ian Hamilton
There was a lot of buzz surrounding the non-roster right-handed reliever’s “cut-change,” a change-up that can have the action of a cutter or slider. Boone has called it “a weird, good pitch” and “a problem” for opposing hitters. This award recognizes Hamilton’s unique pitch and potential to make a significant impact on the Yankees’ bullpen.
