Aaron Boone says competition at second is ‘wide open’

TAMPA, Fla. — Aaron Boone called the competition for the starting job at second base “wide open” and ticked off a handful of names he considers right in the thick of it.

There is Gleyber Torres, naturally, one of the top prospects in the sport, who got the start at second in Friday’s exhibition opener. Torres went 0-for-2 but did complete a 4-4-3 double play to end the fifth.

But Boone mentioned Tyler Wade and Ronald Torreyes just as prominently, as well as non-roster invitees Jace Peterson and Danny Espinosa, both of whom have significant big-league experience.

“We have some talented guys,” Boone said. “Guys like Espinosa and Peterson that have done some things at the big-league level. We’re really excited about Tyler Wade; he kind of showed off his skill set today. I’d say there’s a lot of guys in that mix. It’s one of those spots that will become clearer as camp unfolds, and hopefully by the end, it will be clear to everyone.”

Wade, who struggled at the plate last season in the majors, went 2-for-2 with a double Friday.

Paying respects

The Yankees wore caps to honor victims of the recent tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. “Baseball sometimes can play a part in helping with the healing process,” Boone said. “It’s something small that was cool to be a part of.”

Extra bases

Boone said Gary Sanchez and Brett Gardner, both of whom did not play Friday, will not play Saturday or Sunday and likely will make their debuts Monday night at home against Philadelphia . . . Ben Heller, who hopes to put himself in contention for a bullpen spot or least make himself an early option to be called up if the need arises, had an odd fourth inning. He allowed two hits, threw a wild pitch and struck out three.