How Six Moves by Brian Cashman Contributed to the Yankees’ Current Struggles

The Yankees have faced criticism for straying too far into analytics and abandoning their scouting roots. However, General Manager Brian Cashman maintains that they strive to strike a balance between new school and old. From an outsider’s perspective, it is difficult to determine the validity of these critiques, but one thing is clear: the Yankees’ won-loss record is far from ideal. With a 60-62 record going into the second game against the Red Sox, following an 8-3 defeat in the series opener, the situation is both concerning and uncharacteristic for the Yankees.

Regardless of recent setbacks, Cashman’s overall resume speaks for itself. With a track record of winning records, 21 playoff appearances, and consistent success, his expertise is undeniable. Even this year, the Yankees are still projected to have a 2.4 percent chance of making the playoffs according to the internet, although some may argue that this is simply a computer error.

However, recent years have not been without their disappointments. According to The Post’s Jon Heyman, Cashman’s six major moves have been largely unsuccessful. Despite this, Cashman has consistently delivered a product that Yankees fans could be proud of—until now. The team’s performance this year is not only mediocre but also painfully boring. One may question why fans continue to fill Yankee Stadium, as it lacks excitement on nights when star players like Gerrit Cole and Aaron Judge are not in the lineup. Nevertheless, the Yankees still rank second in attendance, only behind the consistently winning Dodgers.

Although fans have been excessively critical of Cashman, it is fair to say that he is currently enduring a slump. Some believe that these high-pressure positions have a shelf life, but it is unlikely that Cashman will be going anywhere with three years remaining on his contract and Hal Steinbrenner’s history of keeping calm. While Cashman has made some promising moves at the fringes, particularly with catcher Jose Trevino and relievers, his major transactions in recent years have been largely disappointing or disastrous.

Here is a ranking of these moves based on regret: 1. The unsuccessful acquisition of Frankie Montas and Lou Trivino for five young players and prospects stands out as a significant letdown. Neither player has pitched this season, and Montas’ shoulder injury raises concerns about the Yankees’ medical evaluations. Furthermore, the missed opportunity to acquire Luis Castillo, one of the game’s best pitchers, is particularly regrettable.
2. The acquisition of Joey Gallo for four prospects did not pan out as expected. Gallo struggled during his entire tenure with the Yankees, while one of the prospects, utilityman Ezequiel Duran, appears to be a player the team could have benefited from.
3. The trade that sent Gio Urshela and Gary Sanchez to the Twins in exchange for Josh Donaldson, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and Ben Rortvedt did not live up to expectations. The Yankees were eager to part ways with Sanchez, but Donaldson’s frequent injuries and struggles at the plate have made him a questionable acquisition.
4. The signing of Carlos Rodon for $162 million over six years has not yielded favorable results so far. Rodon has battled various injuries and has struggled on the mound, with a high ERA. If his performance does not improve, this move may top the list of regrets.
5. The extension of Luis Severino for $40 million over four years initially seemed wise. However, Severino has had a poor season, and he himself admits that he has been one of the worst pitchers in the game statistically.
6. The decision to extend Aaron Hicks for $70 million over seven years was questionable from the start. Giving a long-term deal to an average player proved to be a mistake for Cashman and the Yankees, as Hicks eventually regressed and was eventually released.

These missteps, combined with the inability to develop and improve players, have resulted in the Yankees’ current state of mediocrity. Players like Gleyber Torres, Gary Sanchez, and Luis Severino, who were once considered All-Star caliber, have not lived up to their potential. Even promising prospects like Deivi Garcia have faltered, leaving one to wonder if the Yankees would have been able to trade them for anyone valuable or healthy in the first place.

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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
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