New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone made a notable decision for Wednesday's game against the Mets by leaving second baseman Gleyber Torres out of the lineup. This move came in the wake of Torres failing to run out a key late-inning ground ball in the previous game. Oswaldo Cabrera stepped in to fill Torres' usual spot at second base.
The 27-year-old Torres has faced significant struggles this season. In the 2024 campaign, he is batting .215/.294/.333 with seven home runs across 80 games. These numbers equate to an OPS+ of 78, a stark contrast to his career OPS+ of 114 before the season. His recent slump over the past two weeks has been particularly concerning, as he has slashed .108/.222/.324.
Boone’s decision reflects the urgent need for Torres to regain 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.
Torres attributed his recent lack of hustle on the field to groin discomfort. While this explanation provides some context, it doesn’t fully mitigate the frustration stemming from his on-field performance. The Yankees, currently plagued by injuries to key players like Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton, are relying heavily on contributions from players like Torres.
Despite their 52-29 record entering the midweek showdown, the Yankees have seen a notable dip in their form, losing five of their last six games and seven of their previous nine. The Yankees hold a slim two-game lead over the Orioles in the highly competitive AL East race. With the Mets boasting the best record in Major League Baseball for June at 14-6, every game carries added significance for the Yankees in maintaining their divisional lead.
Ensuring Torres’ health and getting his bat to heat up again are critical to the Yankees’ success this season. The team’s pressing schedule only amplifies the importance of having all roster spots contributing effectively.
Boone’s decision to sit Torres might serve as both a wake-up call and a protective measure. By giving Torres a break, the team hopes to address his groin discomfort and afford him a moment to recalibrate. In the meantime, Oswaldo Cabrera’s play at second base will be under the spotlight as the Yankees navigate this challenging stretch.
The overarching narrative for the Yankees is one of balancing immediate results with long-term aspirations. Their recent struggles underscore the significance of each game, yet the potential resurgence of Torres could prove pivotal for the Yankees’ quest for sustained success throughout the season.
As the Yankees forge ahead, all eyes remain on Torres and his potential to turn the tide. His ability to regain his form will be crucial as the Yankees aim to extend their lead in the AL East and position themselves as formidable contenders in the playoff race.