Gleyber Torres Benched Amid Yankees' Struggles
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone made a notable decision ahead of Wednesday's game against the Mets by leaving second baseman Gleyber Torres out of the lineup. The move followed Torres' failure to run out a key late-inning ground ball in the previous game, a lapse he attributed to groin discomfort. Oswaldo Cabrera stepped into Torres' role at second base, highlighting the sense of urgency Boone faces as the Yankees grapple with recent struggles.
Challenges for Torres and the Yankees
The 27-year-old Torres has had a turbulent 2024 season, batting .215/.294/.333 with seven home runs in 80 games. These numbers amount to an OPS+ of 78, a significant decline from his career OPS+ of 114 before this season. Torres' recent performance has only exacerbated concerns, as he has slashed just .108/.222/.324 over the past two weeks.
Boone's decision to bench Torres underlines the critical need for the second baseman to rediscover his form. "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 emphasized. The Yankees are in a precarious spot, having lost five of their last six games and seven of their last nine, yet they still hold a two-game lead over the Orioles in the AL East race with a 52-29 record going into Wednesday's showdown.
Impact of Injuries and Recent Performance
Compounding the Yankees' woes is the absence of key players Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton, both of whom are crucial to the team's offensive firepower. The pressure mounts on remaining players like Torres to perform and fill the void left by these significant injuries. However, Torres' groin discomfort and subpar statistics have hindered his ability to contribute effectively to the team's success.
The Yankees have relied heavily on Torres in the past, and the need for his resurgence is imperative. Ensuring his health and reigniting his bat are critical to the Yankees' aspirations this season. Boone and the coaching staff's decision to rest Torres might be a strategic move, aimed not only at safeguarding his health but also at sending a message about the importance of effort and consistency.
Yankees' Outlook and Key Games Ahead
As the Yankees navigate a pressing schedule, the contributions from players like Torres become even more vital. The team cannot afford to slip further in a fiercely competitive AL East, especially as they face a Mets team boasting the best record in Major League Baseball for June, at 14-6. Every game holds significant weight, and revival within the ranks is not just preferred but necessary.
The Yankees' management and fans alike will be keeping a close watch on Torres' progress and recovery. With his batting average and OPS+ lagging behind his career norms, a turnaround could play a pivotal role in the Yankees' pursuit of postseason success. Boone's public encouragement signals his belief in Torres' potential to bounce back and re-establish his presence in the lineup.
While the decision to bench Torres for his lapse may raise eyebrows, it underscores a broader effort to mitigate injury risks and spur improved performance. The Yankees need every player firing on all cylinders to maintain their advantage in the AL East and reverse their current slide. The spotlight remains fixed on Torres, as the team looks to him for the resurgence that could propel them through this challenging stretch.