The Y-D Red Sox fell to the Harwich Mariners on Thursday night, 10–2.
With the team struggling in July, Y-D manager Scott Pickler decided to shake up the lineup. One of the key changes was appointing a new leadoff hitter. He turned to infielder Yomar Carreras, who had been a steady presence near the bottom of the order during the first half of the season.
Carreras made his debut in the leadoff spot on Wednesday against Cotuit, lining the first pitch he saw into left field. He reached base twice, recording a hit and a walk, and came around to score two runs on the night.
“I try not to change too much. It’s hard enough to hit. I’m just going up there looking for a pitch,” Carreras said. “I’ve gotten it for these last two days, and I’m just going with it.”
The second baseman stayed aggressive to start Friday’s matchup, sending the first pitch into center field. He added another single in the third inning, again swinging at the first offering. The ball left his bat at 90 mph, further showing his ability to consistently square it up.
“I’ve been seeing the ball pretty well. I’ve been working hard at it,” said Carreras after Thursday’s game. “I’m getting the pitch I want and in the zone I want, so I’m just putting my A-swing on it.”
Carreras’s speed is a valuable asset, allowing him to beat out infield singles and put pressure on defenses. He’s recorded four doubles this season, including several to the opposite field.
As a switch-hitter, he frequently alternates sides at the plate, but one thing remains consistent—his ability to make solid contact, often driving the ball the other way. He’s currently batting .286, a 31-point improvement over his freshman average at Rutgers.
Even if it doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet, defense is a key part of Carreras’s game. Whether he’s playing shortstop or second base, his reliable glove gives pitchers confidence that plays will be made. Over the past week, he has made several standout plays—ranging from smooth double plays to diving stops that kept balls in the infield. When he’s seeing the ball well, he can quickly become one of the most valuable players on the team.
