Ramiro Pena Makes his Case

Mark Feinsand of the NY Daily News reported this morning that the Yankees are giving serious consideration to awarding the utility infield spot to 23-yr old Ramiro Pena. With the injury to Alex Rodriguez opening a spot on the roster, it was believed that Cody Ransom would be the every day third baseman and Angel Berroa would be the utility man.

But Pena has opened a lot of eyes this spring with his glove, speed, and the ability to play multiple infield positions. A .304 spring batting average and 7 RBI hasn't hurt his cause either.

The down side, of course, is having a 23-yr old sitting most days instead of playing regularly in the minor leagues. (Pena hasn't played above Double-A thus far.) Berroa has made a case for himself this spring by hitting .400 this spring. He's got power and could push Ransom if he were to struggle in A-Rod's place.

The bad news for both players is that the winner of the competition will most likely be sent to the minors when A-Rod returns, with Ransom resuming his utility role.