It wasn't big news, as the Yanks were still a bit elated about Gerrit Cole at the time.
But he will be missed. He was a great player and I'm not sure any shortstop could have performed the way he did in a very tough situation, which was replacing a Yankees legend. He reminds me quite a bit of the burden Tino had to deal with when he replaced Don Mattingly.
He evolved into a middle of the lineup force, and hit some massive post-season homers.
Didi's TJ surgery was unfortunately what began to end his career with NY. He came back and just didn't quite produce the way he had before, although he still managed to hit 16 homers in 82 games.
But what is also showed was that Gleyber Torres could handle the everyday SS duties. And with DJ LeMahieu and and Miguel Andujar coming back, letting Didi go was the easy way to save some $$ for the Cole signing.
Didi was a team leader and a great personality, and I wish him nothing but success in Philly. Here is a card I picked up of him right before he left:
Thanks, Didi.
He was a great Yankee and will be missed. Reunites with Girardi in Philadelphia.
ReplyDeleteSuper underrated SS. Hoping the best for him in Philly... unless he’s playing the Buccos.
ReplyDeleteIt shows how loaded the Yankees are when allowing Didi to walk isn't a big deal. I hope he finds success in Philly.
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