The 2023 season has indeed been a rollercoaster for the New York Yankees. Through mid-June, the team boasted the best record in the league, igniting hope and excitement among fans. However, that momentum came to a screeching halt as the Yankees faced a severe downturn post mid-June.
General Manager Brian Cashman, however, maintains a bright outlook concerning the team’s postseason prospects. Despite the hurdles, the Yankees' postseason odds remain comfortably over 90%, a figure that instills confidence in the team's ability to make a deep run. Cashman’s optimism is palpable as the July 30 trade deadline approaches, with the front office preparing to act as buyers to bolster the team’s chances.
"We're gonna be open-minded to a lot of different things. I'm not going to point out anything specific, but we definitely have areas to improve upon, and we'll do our best to do so. My deadline plan is to see if we can run into as much that can improve our team as possible," Cashman remarked, signaling his proactive approach.
Challenges on Offense
The Yankees’ offensive struggles have been evident. DJ LeMahieu, since his return from a spring-training foot injury, has been underwhelming, hovering around a .500 OPS. This is a stark contrast to his usual form and a point of concern for the team.
With Anthony Rizzo injured, Ben Rice has had to step in at first base, highlighting the Yankees' current predicament. Furthermore, the Yankees rank 24th among the 30 teams in Wins Above Replacement (WAR) at third base. The inconsistency in performance is echoed by Alex Verdugo’s continued struggles against left-handed pitchers, a problem extending over the last three seasons.
Pitching Woes
The Yankees' bullpen has also failed to meet expectations, particularly in terms of strikeouts. High-profile pitchers like Carlos Rodón and Marcus Stroman have been stumbling lately, adding to the mound issues. Luis Gil faces the challenge of entering unfamiliar workload territory, further compounding the team’s pitching dilemmas.
The injuries have not spared the pitching roster either. Clarke Schmidt remains several weeks away from returning from a lat strain, and Jasson Domínguez, after completing his Tommy John surgery rehab, pulled his oblique immediately. The injury bug has bitten hard, with Spencer Jones carrying one of the highest strikeout rates in the minors, and Chase Hampton and Henry Lalane sidelined for much of 2024.
Minor League Struggles
Down in Triple-A, Will Warren is struggling to maintain an ERA below 6.00, despite enjoying considerable support from fans. Adding to the minor league woes, Everson Pereira recently required season-ending elbow surgery.
However, it’s not all gloom in the minors. Brock Selvidge, a Double-A lefty, has experienced a breakout year, offering a glimmer of hope for the future pitching roster.
Trade Deadline Strategies
Credited as an "all-in" moment for the Yankees due to Juan Soto's only guaranteed year with the team, the pressure is on for the front office to navigate the trade deadline with precision. The likely aggressive trade moves could be pivotal in shaping the remainder of the Yankees' season.
The Marlins and Tigers appear to be potential trade targets, given their status as expected sellers at the deadline. The Yankees’ previous successful acquisitions, like that of Harrison Bader from the Cardinals, indicate a readiness to pull the trigger on opportunistic trades. Cashman and his team’s decisions in the coming days will likely define the Yankees' fate as they strive to conquer the postseason hurdles.
The 2023 season has tested the Yankees on multiple fronts, but with a strategic approach to the trade deadline and some key players finding form, there remains a strong belief within the camp that this rollercoaster ride could still have a thrilling finish.