New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone made a notable lineup change for Wednesday's game against the cross-town rival Mets, opting to bench second baseman Gleyber Torres. This decision followed Torres' failure to hustle on a crucial late-inning ground ball just a day earlier, leading to an opportunity for Oswaldo Cabrera to step in at second base.
Struggles at the Plate and in the Field
Torres, who is 27 years old, has battled consistency issues throughout the 2024 season, posting a rather disappointing slash line of .215/.294/.333 with seven home runs over the course of 80 games. These numbers translate to an OPS+ of 78, a stark contrast to his career OPS+ of 114 entering the season. His recent slump has been even more pronounced, hitting just .108/.222/.324 over the last two weeks.
The Yankees, sitting atop the AL East with a 52-29 record but dealing with a rough patch they've lost five of their last six games and seven of their last nine have felt the pressure. Key players like Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton have been sidelined, amplifying the need for contributions from other roster members, including Torres.
Manager's Perspective
Addressing the media, Boone emphasized the importance of Torres’ role in the team’s success, especially during this challenging period. "We need him to go. 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," Boone stated. The manager’s words underline a critical, albeit familiar, message: the team’s aspirations hinge on Torres regaining his form and delivering impactful performances.
Injury Adds Context
Adding context to his benching, Torres mentioned groin discomfort as the reason behind his failure to run out the ground ball, an ailment that could explain his lackluster recent performance at the plate. Ensuring Torres' health and reigniting his bat remain paramount for the Yankees, especially with the team navigating a demanding schedule and contending with a slim two-game lead over the Orioles in the division race.
Challenges Ahead
The Yankees’ narrow division lead and current skid make it imperative for the team to find stability. The Mets, sporting the best record in Major League Baseball for June at 14-6, present a formidable opponent. In this context, Boone’s decision to rest Torres, rather than push him through his discomfort, reflects a strategic move aimed at long-term gains rather than short-term fixes.
As the Yankees continue their campaign, the spotlight remains fixed on Gleyber Torres. His ability to overcome his struggles and contribute to the team will undoubtedly be a key storyline moving forward. The organization and its fans will be watching closely, hoping that this moment serves as the turning point Torres needs to reclaim his role as a pivotal player in the Yankees' lineup.
With the season progressing and crucial games on the horizon, the stakes are high. Boone's decision underscores not just the immediate need for effectiveness but also acts as a reminder to every player about the expectations and standards of playing in Yankee pinstripes. For Torres, the message is clear: the team needs him, and they need him at his best.