How a team handles the little things makes a big difference in the postseason. Just look at what happened in the recent Little League World Series finale: Taiwan misplayed a bunt and handed the championship to Florida.
It’s unlikely the New York Yankees are looking to a bunch of 12-year-olds for inspiration. However, the Bombers do seem to be diving into the details ahead of the postseason by snapping up outfielder Duke Ellis.
Designated for assignment by the Seattle Mariners last week, Ellis is known for one attribute: speed. And that speed could make this under-the-radar move a key component in the Yankees’ push for a 28th championship.
The Yankees are Ellis’ fourth team this season. After joining the Chicago White Sox for a cup of coffee in early June, he spent time in the minor leagues with the New York Mets and the Mariners.
Ellis, 26, isn’t much of a threat at the plate. He went 0-for-4 in his MLB stint and has slashed just .238/.325/.339 in his minor league career. But his elite wheels have kept him employed.
Although he went hitless with the White Sox, he stole four bases in four tries. In 273 minor league games, he’s nabbed 134 bags in 152 attempts. And he was thrown out just twice in three seasons of NCAA baseball.
Clearly, the Yankees signed Ellis to use as a difference maker as they attempt to win their division and then march through the playoffs. As a potent pinch runner, he gives Bombers manager Aaron Boone the option to turn late-inning walks and singles into doubles and triples. And Ellis would make an incredibly scary ghost runner in extra-inning affairs.
Ellis joining the Yankees isn’t a big story right now. But there’s a world in which he delivers some key moments in the playoffs.
