PT TOMORROW: AL East—Looking ahead to 2019: lineups

New York Yankees

While the Yankees will enter 2019 with most of their major roles settled, first base is a notable exception. Despite a clear path to playing time, Gregory Bird (1B, NYY) has not been able to take advantage, to the point where he has recently begun to lose time—even against right-handed pitching—to Luke Voit (1B, NYY). While a criminally low 13% hit rate has been part to blame for Bird’s struggles over the past month, his xBA of .225 suggests that Bird’s issues go beyond bad luck. Bird displays some decent power skills, though nothing like he showed when he burst on the scene in 2015, and his contact rate leaves something to be desired.

With Tyler Austin (1B, MIN) now in Minnesota, there is an avenue for Voit to retain a...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With a number of position battles still underway in the NL West, extra spring training reps for competing players may be the difference between a regular role in the show and a possible trip back to the minors.
Mar 7 2026 3:10am
It's time for the World Baseball Classic; who will see more playing time while players represent their countries in the tournament?
Mar 6 2026 3:05am
Sal Perez's absence for the WBC could mean it's Carter Jensen's time to shine in Royals camp. Plus, looks at WBC impacts on all AL Central rosters.
Mar 5 2026 3:10am
With players leaving camp to play in the WBC, who could gain some playing time increases in the AL West?
Mar 4 2026 3:10am
A rejuvenated Eloy Jiménez has stood out in early Grapefruit League action and should continue to get at-bats with many Toronto regulars playing in the WBC. Plus, more WBC fallout from around the division.
Mar 3 2026 3:03am

Tools