The 2023 season has been nothing short of a rollercoaster for the New York Yankees. A team that started with promise, boasting the best record in the league through mid-June, now finds itself navigating turbulent seas.
General Manager Brian Cashman maintains an optimistic outlook on the Yankees' postseason chances. Despite their recent struggles, the team's postseason odds still sit comfortably over 90%. Cashman has indicated that the Yankees will be buyers as the July 30 trade deadline approaches, demonstrating a commitment to bolstering the roster for a deep playoff push.
Offensive Challenges
One of the most pressing issues for the Yankees this season has been their offense. DJ LeMahieu’s performance has been particularly concerning. Since returning from a spring-training foot injury, LeMahieu has been hovering around a .500 OPS, a sharp decline from his usual output. The absence of Anthony Rizzo has added to the team's woes, but Ben Rice has stepped in at first base in his stead.
The Yankees' struggles are not limited to individual players. Collectively, the team ranks 24th out of 30 in Wins Above Replacement (WAR) at third base. While Gleyber Torres has shown signs of improvement at second base, Alex Verdugo’s performance against left-handed pitchers has been abysmal this year and for the last three seasons.
Pitching Woes
The bullpen has been underwhelming in terms of strikeouts, adding to the Yankees' challenges. Starters Carlos Rodón and Marcus Stroman have been stumbling lately, further complicating the team's pitching situation. Luis Gil is entering unfamiliar workload territory, and Clarke Schmidt is still several weeks away from returning from a lat strain. Additionally, Jasson Domínguez completed his Tommy John surgery rehab only to pull his oblique immediately, setting back his return.
Minor League Struggles and Bright Spots
At the minor league level, Spencer Jones has one of the highest strikeout rates, which is a growing concern for the future. Both Chase Hampton and Henry Lalane have been sidelined with injuries for much of 2024, while Will Warren is struggling to keep his ERA below 6.00 in Triple-A. Everson Pereira recently required season-ending elbow surgery, further depleting the Yankees' minor league depth.
However, not all is bleak. Brock Selvidge, a Double-A lefty, has experienced a breakout year, offering a glimpse of potential future success. Despite his struggles in Triple-A, Will Warren continues to have fans who see potential in his game.
Trade Deadline Strategy
This year represents an "all-in" moment for the Yankees, largely because it is the only guaranteed year that Juan Soto will be with the team. The front office is expected to pursue aggressive trades before the trade deadline, with the Marlins and Tigers identified as potential trade targets. "We're gonna be open-minded to a lot of different things. 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," said Cashman.
It wouldn't be the first time the Yankees made a bold move around the deadline. Two years ago, the team acquired Harrison Bader from the Cardinals despite an injury. Such decisive strategies may again define the outcome of the Yankees' season as they navigate the treacherous waters of a struggling midseason.
As the clock ticks down to the July 30 deadline, Cashman's navigation of this critical period will be pivotal. With postseason odds still high and a roster that shows promise despite its challenges, the Yankees' fate remains uncertain yet hopeful.