In a surprising move, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone opted to leave second baseman Gleyber Torres out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Mets. This decision follows a particularly disappointing performance from Torres, who failed to run out a crucial late-inning ground ball the previous day, which he attributed to groin discomfort.
Struggles on the Field
Torres, 27, has faced significant difficulties at the plate this season. Batting .215/.294/.333 with seven home runs across 80 games, his performance has dropped dramatically compared to his career OPS+ of 114, entering the season. This year, his numbers translate to an OPS+ of just 78. Over the past two weeks, his struggles have intensified, with Torres slashing a dismal .108/.222/.324.
The Yankees have much to contend with, including the absences of key players like Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton. The team, however, remains in a competitive position, entering Wednesday's showdown with a 52-29 record, holding a two-game lead over the Orioles in the AL East race. Yet, recent form has been concerning as they've lost five of their last six games and seven of their last nine. The Mets, on the other hand, boast the best record in Major League Baseball for June at 14-6, escalating the pressure on the Yankees and their manager.
The Manager's Perspective
Aaron Boone addressed the media regarding Torres’ benching, emphasizing the player's importance to the team. "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.
To fill Torres’ usual position, Oswaldo Cabrera took over at second base. While Cabrera’s contributions were serviceable, the Yankees undoubtedly need a resurgence from their struggling infielder if they hope to maintain their standing in the tightly contested AL East.
The Road Ahead
The Yankees’ demanding schedule only amplifies the urgency of getting Torres back to form. Ensuring his health and reigniting his bat are pivotal for the Yankees' aspirations this season. With the AL East race heating up and the Orioles nipping at their heels, the Bronx Bombers will need every available resource to secure their lead.
As the Yankees look to rebound from their recent slump, all eyes will certainly be on Torres. His performance in the next few games could very well determine the trajectory of the Yankees' season. With Boone’s clear message laid out and the stakes high, the narrative around Torres' season—and possibly his career—could soon take another dramatic turn.
In the ever-competitive world of Major League Baseball, moments of trial can often lead to redemption. For Gleyber Torres and the New York Yankees, the upcoming games might just offer that golden opportunity.