In a move that underscores the urgency of the Yankees' current predicament, manager Aaron Boone opted to leave second baseman Gleyber Torres out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Mets. This decision came on the heels of Torres’ failure to run out a crucial late-inning ground ball just a day earlier, which he attributed to discomfort in his groin.
Lineup Adjustments Amid Struggles
Oswaldo Cabrera stepped into Torres' shoes, marking a significant lineup adjustment for a team already grappling with the absence of key players Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton. The Yankees have been plagued by recent poor performances, having lost five of their last six games and seven of their last nine. Despite holding a two-game lead over the Orioles in the AL East with a record of 52-29, the Yankees are feeling the pressure.
Torres' Performance Decline
The decision to sit Torres is not only a reflection of his recent lackluster effort on base paths but also of his dwindling performance at the plate. Torres, now 27, has seen his batting average drop to .215/.294/.333 with seven home runs over 80 games this season, translating to an OPS+ of 78—significantly lower than his career OPS+ of 114 entering the season. Over the past two weeks, Torres has been in a dismal slump, slashing just .108/.222/.324.
Boone emphasized the importance of Torres to the Yankees' success during this critical stretch, stating, "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."
The Road Ahead for Torres and the Yankees
The Yankees' upcoming schedule does not afford them the luxury of easing up, making it imperative for Torres to regain form both offensively and defensively. Ensuring his health while reigniting his bat could be pivotal for the Yankees’ aspirations this season. The Mets, meanwhile, boast the best record in Major League Baseball for June at 14-6, adding another layer of difficulty for the struggling Yankees.
With the team needing contributions from every player, Torres' situation adds to the challenges Boone’s squad faces. The manager's decision to give Torres a day off can be seen as a strategic move to provide rest and allow time for recuperation, hoping for a much-needed turnaround.
The Yankees' success has long been built on the collective efforts of their roster, and in times of struggle, leaders like Torres are expected to step up. As they navigate a grueling schedule and strive to maintain their lead in the AL East, the reintegration of a rejuvenated Torres will be crucial.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this brief hiatus serves as the catalyst for Torres to rediscover his form and fortify the Yankees’ lineup during this intensely competitive period.