Yankees add to depth by signing another experienced left-handed hitter

The Yankees’ offseason initiative to inject more left-handed bats into their lineup has extended into the upper levels of their minor-league system as well.

In December, the Yankees picked up Luis González, an ex-Giants outfielder with upside who is poised to begin next season in Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Odds are, Josh VanMeter — who signed a minor-league contract with the Yankees on Wednesday — will join him there this spring.

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic was first to report VanMeter’s deal with the Yankees, another move to bolster position-player depth leading up to spring training.

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VanMeter, 28, has played in 300 big-league games over parts of four seasons with the Reds, Diamondbacks and Pirates. He’s a .206 career hitter in the majors, a utilityman with experience at every position except center field and shortstop. VanMeter’s last MLB appearance came in September of 2022 with Pittsburgh. He was designated for the Pirates a few days later.

Last season, VanMeter was in the Brewers organization, hitting .199 with a .762 OPS in 46 games with Milwaukee’s Triple-A affiliate in Nashville. He’s slashed .274/.380/.525 over 221 games at the Triple-A level in his minor-league career, hitting 41 home runs.

This news comes hours after the Yankees cut a player that had an even better shot at earning big-league playing time in 2024.

To make room for right-hander Marcus Stroman on the 40-man roster, outfielder Oscar Gonzalez was designated for assignment. Another move is coming: The signing of righty Luke Weaver in free agency hasn’t been made official yet, but he also must be added to the 40-man roster.