Yangervis Solarte optioned to Triple-A; Zelous Wheeler called up

Yangervis Solarte started the 2014 season as one of the Yankees' hottest hitters and one of the best stories to come out of spring training, but struggles since mid-May have caused the team to option the third baseman to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Solarte has managed to still work his fair share of walks during his struggles at the plate, but a sub-.200 batting average since he started to tail off after a hot month and a half left a bit to be desired. He could, of course, find his way out of this prolonged slump at the minor league level. It's just a matter of the team needing to try something else when the big league club is starved for offense.

To replace him on the roster will be Zelous Wheeler, who was recalled from Triple-A. In 66 games with the RailRiders this season the 27-year-old Wheeler has batted .299/.367/.467 with seven home runs and twenty doubles. A 40-man move will have to be made to get Wheeler onto the roster, which is a little disappointing for fans who may have wanted to see Jose Pirela or Rob Refsnyder get the call instead. It may be a matter of the Yankees not feeling comfortable with Kelly Johnson manning third base full time that gave Wheeler the nod over either of the other two who are outperforming him in Triple-A. Hopefully this is just the first step of a few to be made.

Are you disappointed with the Yankees' decision to give Wheeler the call over Pirela or Refsnyder? Do you think Solarte can turn it around in the minors and find his way back to the big league club?

UPDATE: The Yankees have designated Dean Anna for assignment to make room for Zelous Wheeler.