Spring Training Report: Checking In With Yankees Prospect Corban Joseph

Infielder Corban Joseph was optioned to Triple-A camp this weekend. He spent 2011 with Double-A Trenton hitting .277 in 131 games, leading the team in hits (138) runs batted in (58). With that kind of success it was hard to imagine him returning to Trenton, despite a need to improve defensively.
Here’s what he had to say when he spoke to Gotham Baseball Sunday:

On what he’s working on this spring: “I am really working on a lot of defensive situations/ range plays/ and routine plays, Approach to the baseball- really trying to smooth things out. Hitting wise really just getting back into the swing of things. Trying to be more define with my approach at the plate and really stay focused on the pitch I want to hit. The swing is always a bit slow to come around but I am getting a lot of at bats so hopefully it will Speed up the process.”

The offseason: “I really needed the rest. I played in the Arizona fall league and enjoyed that. Really just recovered from a long season and hit the weights hard. Worked a lot in the cage with my swing focusing on hitting line drives.”

Influential coach at camp: “I had the privilege to work with Kevin Long when I was at big league camp. I think we spoke the same language and he showed me a lot of good drills to work to make me a better player. I enjoyed that time.”

On whether he was concerned where he’d start 2012: “I really don’t worry about those things. I can’t control where I go or where I play, but I can control how I play the game every time I step on the field. So I try and stay focused on that. It’s everyone’s dream who plays, to play in the big leagues. My dream is the same wherever I am. I am going to work hard at both places.”