The 2023 season started with excessive hopes for the New York Yankees. Because the season progressed, nevertheless, it turned clear that the group confronted important challenges, particularly on the offensive facet. Key gamers’ lackluster performances and underachievements have been evident points all year long.
They’ve ceaselessly failed to satisfy expectations, scoring two runs or much less in a staggering 30 out of their 89 video games this yr. After shedding seven in a row, three straight to Boston and a -26 run differential on the season, their playoff hopes are primarily nonexistent.
The Yankees at present sit at -10000 “No” to make the playoffs (a +2500 “Sure”) at DraftKings Sportsbook, and it’s time to get a greater group prepared for 2024.
A glimmer of hope: The youth motion
Regardless of the frustration of the present season, there’s a glimmer of hope for the Yankees of their younger prospects ready within the minors. Everson Pereira can inject much-needed vitality and expertise into the struggling Yankees’ outfield.
Catcher Austin Wells is one other prospect being intently watched by Yankees insiders and followers alike. Wells has the potential to be a star for years.
Proper now and for the remainder of the season, the Yankees should prioritize the event of their younger prospects. Deliver up Austin Wells, Jasson Dominguez, Spencer Jones, Everson Pereira, Will Warren, Drew Thorpe or Chase Hampton when the roster expands in September.
By giving them alternatives on the main league degree, the group can lastly consider their potential and decide their function in the way forward for the franchise and construct for subsequent yr.
Rebuilding for fulfillment
To actually get better from their present state of disappointment, the Yankees should embark on a rebuilding part. One space that New York ought to goal is their payroll. By shedding unhealthy contracts like Josh Donaldson’s, the group can liberate monetary assets of over $50M, together with the hit from Aaron Hicks’s deal.
The Yankees must rid themselves of getting older, costly, and unproductive expertise through the use of their $50M in wage financial savings on two under-28, big-talent free brokers on the winter conferences, and re-sign Bader and Gleyber Torres to team-friendly offers.
Moreover, permitting Aaron Choose, Giancarlo Stanton, Carlos Rodon, Nestor Cortes, and Anthony Rizzo to recuperate and situation for the 2024 season underneath no postseason stress could possibly be revitalizing, cathartic, and invaluable to the group.
Wanting forward
Whereas the present season could also be a disappointment for the Yankees and their followers, there’s motive to consider in a brighter future. Infusing younger expertise, strategic wage strikes, and a concentrate on participant improvement can set the stage for a profitable, environment friendly and fast rebuild.
