Gleyber Torres Benched After Critical Baserunning Lapse
In a surprising move, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone opted to leave second baseman Gleyber Torres out of the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the rival New York Mets. The decision followed a critical baserunning mistake in Tuesday's game when Torres failed to hustle on a late-inning ground ball, an error that could have swayed the game's outcome.
Filling in for Torres at second was versatile infielder Oswaldo Cabrera, a sign that Boone is willing to shake things up to spark his slumping squad. This benching comes amidst a turbulent period for Torres, who has struggled significantly at the plate in recent weeks. Over his last two weeks, Torres has been slashing a woeful .108/.222/.324, far below the standard set earlier in his career.
Statistical Struggles
For the 2024 season, Torres' overall numbers have been middling at best. He's batting .215/.294/.333 with seven home runs over 80 games, stats that contribute to a below-average OPS+ of 78. This marks a stark contrast from his career OPS+ of 114 heading into the season. These shortcomings are concerning for a Yankees team that entered Wednesday's game boasting a 52-29 record yet struggling in recent times, having lost five of their last six games and seven of their last nine.
Boone's Challenge
Manager Aaron Boone faces the difficult challenge of balancing day-to-day lineup decisions with long-term goals. "We need him to go," said Boone, addressing Torres' necessity to the team's lineup. "We need him to get going, especially through this stretch... We need him to be a presence in the middle of our lineup. We've got to get that out of him."
The Yankees' recent slump, combined with the absence of key players Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton, means contributions from Torres and others are crucial. Boone's decision to bench Torres highlights the immediate need for accountability and performance reversals, particularly when postseason aspirations are at stake.
Health Concerns
Adding another layer to this predicament is Torres' own admission of physical discomfort. He has attributed his baserunning lapse to groin discomfort, a detail that introduces questions about his overall physical readiness. Ensuring Torres' health and reigniting his bat become dual imperatives for the Yankees’ success.
The tight race in the AL East adds urgency to the situation. With a slim two-game lead over the Baltimore Orioles, the Yankees cannot afford a prolonged slump. Every game carries weight, and Boone's lineup decisions will continue to be scrutinized as the team pushes towards securing its postseason berth.
Facing Tough Competitors
The Yankees’ road isn't getting any easier. Facing a Mets team with an extraordinary June record of 14-6, the Yankees are pitted against one of the hottest teams in baseball. This context no doubt influenced Boone's decision to prioritize readiness and effort in his lineup, even if it meant sidelining one of his more seasoned players.
A Pressing Schedule
The Yankees' schedule remains hectic, reducing recovery and practice times, which puts added pressure on struggling players to perform when called upon. For Torres, this period serves as a critical juncture in his season and perhaps his career with the Yankees.
As the Yankees press on, they need Torres to find his rhythm and contribute meaningfully. Boone’s message is clear: the team needs every player at their best to navigate this challenging stretch and maintain their lead in the AL East.
The coming games will shed light on whether Torres can reclaim his form and help propel the Yankees back to their winning ways. Meanwhile, Boone's managerial acumen will be tested as he navigates injuries, player slumps, and the relentless Major League Baseball schedule.