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Around the Empire: Yankees news - 6/3/21

Aaron Judge drew the start in center in what could be a regular experiment; Oswald Peraza named Player of the Month; Yanks could have news on Kluber rest-of-season availability today

MLB: Tampa Bay Rays at New York Yankees Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

New York Post | Dan Martin: With Aaron Hicks out of action and Brett Gardner struggling at the plate, the Yankees were forced to deploy Aaron Judge in center field. Last night represented his second career start in the most difficult and demanding position in the outfield. Manager Aaron Boone said he and the player discussed the possibility of using him in center after Tuesday’s win. “Obviously understanding we’re in some unique circumstances right now where it’s needed,’’ Boone said. “Aaron is excited to step up to the challenge. He’s a great outfielder [and] a good athlete. Fundamentally, he’s incredibly sound as a defender.” Boone also stated the experiment could be more than just a one-time thing, depending on several things.

Minor League Baseball: Shortstop Oswald Peraza, one of the Yankees’ top prospects, won Player of the Month honors in High-A East. He was a dynamo for the Hudson Valley Renegades, leading the league in total bases with 53, doubles with eight, and stolen bases, with 15 (!). He was also second in hits (30) and fifth in batting average (.323) for the month. Peraza’s progress has been one of the most pleasant storylines of the Yankees’ minor league season.

NJ.com | Randy Miller: As of now, Corey Kluber’s diagnosis remains a subscapularis strain, with a minimum eight weeks on the injured list. Manager Aaron Boone had said he would update the righty’s status on Wednesday, but it didn’t happen. “I’m going to hold off,” he said. “He’s actually still in LA now and getting more information. I think he has an appointment again (Thursday) morning. (He’s) still kind of gathering. I thought I’d have information for you, but I’m going to hold off on that.” It would appear that the Yankees could have some news today regarding his rest-of-the-season outlook.