Yankees manager Aaron Boone's recent decision to replace struggling infielder Oswaldo Peraza in a critical moment paid off when backup catcher J.C. Escarra secured a walk-off victory against the Padres with a sacrifice fly. Boone's gamble was met with mixed reactions; while some fans lauded his boldness, others questioned his faith in Peraza, who has struggled significantly this season. With DJ LeMahieu's imminent return, the competition for infield spots is intensifying, and Peraza's future with the Yankees could be at stake.

Peraza, a former top prospect, has underwhelmed with a .213 batting average and has become a liability at the plate. Boone's choice to trust a backup catcher over him raises questions about how the team views Peraza's potential as well as the overall depth of the lineup. As roster decisions loom, Peraza's position becomes increasingly precarious, particularly with LeMahieu's return and the promising performances from other infielders.

The New York Yankees are set for a pivotal infield roster move as veteran DJ LeMahieu nears his return from injury, potentially impacting players Oswald Peraza and Pablo Reyes. LeMahieu, recovering from a calf strain, brings valuable experience but has struggled with injuries since 2021. Peraza, a 24-year-old former top prospect, is hitting just .205 this season and faces the risk of being designated for assignment due to his lack of production and the fact he is out of minor league options. On the other hand, Reyes, a 31-year-old journeyman, has had limited opportunities and is also struggling at the plate with a .158 average. The Yankees' decision will likely consider LeMahieu’s health and the team’s need for infield reliability, reflecting broader implications for their depth going forward.

In Week 4 of the 2025 fantasy baseball season, several hitters are primed for waiver wire consideration. Rhys Hoskins of the Milwaukee Brewers stands out with a 23% K-rate and a solid performance against right-handed pitchers, making him a valuable first base option. Gavin Sheets of the San Diego Padres has been crushing righties and is expected to continue his hot streak with favorable matchups. Tyler Fitzgerald is emerging as a must-add second baseman for the San Francisco Giants, while Jorge Polanco and Jonathan India offer steady contributions at second and third base, respectively.

Outfielders TJ Friedl and Sal Frelick are also on the radar, with Friedl benefitting from Coors Field's hitter-friendly environment. Catcher Hunter Goodman is another name to watch, especially with good matchups against left-handed pitchers. As injuries continue to plague the league, these players present opportunities to improve your roster and capitalize on favorable matchups this week.

The New York Yankees opened the 2025 season with a decisive sweep over the Milwaukee Brewers, putting on display a potent blend of power hitting and strategic play. Aaron Judge is off to a scorching start, belting four home runs in the first three games, showcasing the aggressive approach he emphasized this spring. The Yankees' third-base situation is beginning to clarify, with DJ LeMahieu injured and Oswald Peraza capitalizing on Pablo Reyes' poor performance. Meanwhile, rookie Jasson Domínguez is still navigating the rocky transition to left field, evidenced by his late-game substitutions. Carlos Rodón's new sinker is generating buzz, as he performed well in his debut start. Additionally, manager Aaron Boone is experimenting with leadoff options, including catcher Austin Wells and first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, demonstrating the team's versatility.