New York Yankees fans react to Isiah Kiner-Falefa saying he's staying ready to play as catcher: "His work ethic and willingness is still top notch"

As we rapidly approach Opening Day, New York Yankees slugger Isiah Kiner-Falefa is doing everything he can to make the team. He is even willing to be a catcher, a position he has never played before at the major league level.

The team's decision to demote him from starting shortstop to a bench role was celebrated by the fan base. His willingness to help out wherever needed was also applauded.

The idea of him becoming a super-utility player first manifested in Spring Training. He played numerous games as a center fielder earlier this month. The Yankees demoted him in favor of top prospect Anthony Volpe, who seems poised to make the Opening Day roster. Kiner-Falefa has shown incredible maturity with his willingness to try new positions.

'Talkin' Yanks' shared a video of Isiah Kiner-Falefa discussing his plans:

Kiner-Falefa was one of the most criticized Yankees last season. But he is earning the respect of the Yankees' passionate fanbase. They may not want him to be the everyday shortstop, but they appreciate his value to the team. If he does make their regular season roster, it will be largely celebrated.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa is a talented defender. He won a Gold Glove Award with the Texas Rangers in 2020. His offensive struggles last season were a weak spot for the team, and his defense couldn't outweigh his issues at the plate.

As a utility player, he will likely see less playing time. This will certainly affect his offensive output. Whether it is for better or worse remains to be seen.

Not every fan is happy that Isiah Kiner-Falefa is still with the Yankees. He is a valuable trade asset. Trading him from the team would give younger players an opportunity to excel at the MLB level. His struggles at the plate last season are too difficult to overlook.

The New York Yankees may have found a tremendous utility player in Isiah Kiner-Falefa.

The New York Yankees infielders have a lot of pressure on them in 2023

Championship Series - Houston Astros v New York Yankees - Game Four

There will be a lot of pressure on Volpe if the Yankees choose to make him their starting shortstop. He will constantly be compared to Houston Astros star Jeremy Pena, who just had a tremendous rookie season as a shortstop.

Josh Donaldson, of course, will also be heavily scrutinized this season. If these two infielders can perform at a high level, the Yankees will reap the rewards.