Nestor Cortes recently defended the Yankees on social media, asserting that “Everybody wants to be us.” However, recent performance suggests otherwise. The Yankees, who started strong with a 50-22 record, now resemble the struggling team that finished fourth in the AL East last year. While the Mets have excelled since mid-June, only the White Sox have fared worse than the Yankees. Since their June 14 victory over the Red Sox at Fenway Park, the Yankees have won only 10 of 31 games.
Despite these struggles, the Yankees remain just three games behind the Orioles for first place in the AL East, but are also only three games ahead of the third-place Red Sox. This proximity in standings highlights the team’s precarious position. Manager Aaron Boone’s remark, “It’s right there in front of us,” while frustrating for fans, holds some truth.
Earlier in June, general manager Brian Cashman seemed poised to make minor additions to bolster the team, such as acquiring another corner infielder or bullpen arms. Now, the Yankees’ vulnerabilities are more pronounced, especially with limited offensive contributions beyond Aaron Judge. Giancarlo Stanton, currently on another IL stint, is seen as a potential savior for the struggling lineup. His return is eagerly anticipated by fans who have grown accustomed to his frequent absences since joining the team.
