The 2023 season has been nothing short of a rollercoaster for the New York Yankees. Having boasted the best record in the league through mid-June, the team's fortunes took a drastic turn, plunging into a severe downturn. Yet, despite the rough waters, General Manager Brian Cashman remains optimistic about the team’s chances, with the Yankees' postseason odds comfortably over 90%.
As the July 30 trade deadline approaches, the Yankees are gearing up to be buyers. However, the team faces significant challenges, particularly with their offense. DJ LeMahieu, once a linchpin in the lineup, has struggled since returning from a spring-training foot injury, languishing with an OPS around .500. The void left by the injured Anthony Rizzo at first base has been partially filled by Ben Rice, but the offensive woes extend beyond just these positions.
Offensive Struggles and Key Players
Third base has been a trouble spot, with the Yankees ranking 24th among the 30 teams in Wins Above Replacement (WAR) at the position. Gleyber Torres has shown some signs of improvement at second base, offering a glimmer of hope for the infield. Meanwhile, outfielder Alex Verdugo's performance against left-handed pitchers has been particularly dismal, not just this year but consistently over the past three seasons.
The pitching staff, usually a strength, has not been immune to issues. The bullpen has been underwhelming in terms of strikeouts, and starting pitchers Carlos Rodón and Marcus Stroman have both been stumbling of late. Adding to the complications, Luis Gil is navigating unfamiliar territory when it comes to his workload, and Clarke Schmidt is still several weeks away from returning from a lat strain. The health challenges continue with prospects, as Jasson Domínguez's rehab from Tommy John surgery was interrupted by an oblique pull, and Spencer Jones boasts one of the highest strikeout rates in the minors.
An "All-In" Season
This year represents a pivotal moment for the Yankees, as it marks the only guaranteed year for superstar Juan Soto with the team. Consequently, the front office is likely to pursue aggressive trades before the deadline. The Marlins and Tigers, expected sellers, are potential targets for the Yankees' trade negotiations. Cashman's ability to navigate these critical weeks may very well define the outcome of the Yankees' season.
"We're gonna be open-minded to a lot of different things," Cashman stated. "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."
Future Outlook
The Yankees have faced injuries to key players throughout the 2024 season. Chase Hampton and Henry Lalane have been sidelined for much of the year, while Will Warren is struggling with an ERA hovering around 6.00 in Triple-A. The recent season-ending elbow surgery for Everson Pereira adds to the list of woes. Nonetheless, there are positives to be found; Double-A lefty Brock Selvidge has experienced a breakout year, and Warren continues to have his fans despite his tough stats.
Two years ago, the Yankees showed their willingness to take risks by acquiring Harrison Bader from the Cardinals while he was in a walking boot. A move indicative of Cashman and his team's strategy: aggressive and relentless in pursuit of improvement. This year, they may need to summon that same boldness to bolster a struggling offense and reinforce a faltering bullpen.
As the trade deadline looms, the pressure is on. Brian Cashman and his staff must make pivotal decisions that could chart the course for either a revitalized season or a disappointing end to what once promised to be a triumphant year for the Yankees. The coming days will be crucial, and the baseball world will be watching closely to see how the storied franchise navigates these turbulent waters.