What to do with Eduardo Nunez

This could end badly

 Last season Nunez came in as the backup infielder after filling that same role in 2011. However the real issue is that Nunez can't field and that's not what you want from your backup, so after a multitude of errors Nunez was sent down in May. He promptly got hurt and ended up not playing for most of the year and his defense hadn't improved in the limited action there. The Yankees like Nunez as he has speed and a decent bat, the problem of course is that his defense is horrible even though his range is good, its just that his throwing is atrocious. Cashman and co need to decide what to do with him as his defensive problems are unlikely to go away, he could suddenly figure it out between now and opening day but his minor league track record suggests otherwise. Also the Yankees decided that they did not want him playing other positions than shortstop despite playing all over the field beforehand. Generally the plan for speedy infielders who can't field is you move them to the outfield.

The big problem now of course is Derek Jeters injury as we have no idea how many games he will be able to play at short. It is possible that the 38 year old shortstop who had limited range before hand may not be able to play the position in more than a limited role. If Jeter has to significantly reduce his playing time at short then Nunez could step in and possibly have to be the primary shortstop. He could also spend some time at DH and with those combined he should be able to play everyday, Cashman wants Nunez to play everyday and this is the only way he would be able to  play in the majors and for the Yankees everyday. The Yankees could also trade Nunez but with that they run the risk of nobody being able to play shortstop when Jeter retires or if he is misses a significant amount of time next season. The off season is just beginning and what the Yankees think Nunez can do for the Yankees is going to be a big part of that. It is good to keep in mind that Shortstops who can hit are in demand and a number of teams are looking for shortstop help this off season.