2014 New York Yankees

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The Season: A Brief Summary

The 2014 New York Yankees season unfolded as a rollercoaster ride, filled with highs and lows that left fans with a mix of emotions. From the very start, as the Yankees kicked off the season against the Houston Astros, it became evident that this year would be different. The team finished the season in second place in the fiercely competitive American League East with an 84–78 record, marking their worst performance since 1992. This disappointment was further magnified as the 2014 New York Yankees missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year, a rare occurrence for a franchise accustomed to postseason success.

The 2014 New York Yankees season had its notable moments, most poignantly being the farewell tour of team captain Derek Jeter. The iconic shortstop played his final season, leaving a void in the hearts of fans who had witnessed his legendary career. Jeter’s departure marked the end of an era, adding an emotional layer to the struggles of the team on the field.

The 2014 New York Yankees faced challenges on multiple fronts. Injuries plagued key players, with Masahiro Tanaka and Michael Pineda spending significant time on the sidelines. The pitching staff suffered a blow with CC Sabathia and Ivan Nova undergoing season-ending surgeries, leaving a void that proved difficult to fill.

Despite the hurdles, there were bright spots. Emerging as one of the season’s highlights was the stellar performance of reliever Dellin Betances, who established himself as one of the most dominant relievers in the league. Additionally, the dynamic outfield duo of Brett Gardner and Jacoby Ellsbury proved to be the 2014 New York Yankees’ most consistent offensive contributors.

However, the offseason acquisitions of Carlos Beltran and Brian McCann did not live up to expectations, contributing to the team’s offensive struggles. Mark Teixeira’s return from wrist surgery fell short, and the replacements for departed star Robinson Cano failed to match his impact.

As the season concluded, the 2014 New York Yankees faced tough decisions, with several key players becoming free agents. The offseason game plan revolved around repairing the lineup, finding a replacement for Jeter, and addressing the designated hitter position. The pitching side saw uncertainty regarding closer David Robertson and the need for a reliable innings-eater to bolster the rotation.

Looking ahead, the 2014 New York Yankees were in a precarious position, caught between the desire to contend and the reality of an aging roster. The post-Jeter era loomed, presenting challenges that a busy offseason aimed to address. While the team remained a formidable force, the age and uncertainties surrounding certain players hinted at a transitional period. The 2014 New York Yankees were expected to be active in the free-agent market, eyeing offensive reinforcements and pitching stability.

In the end, as fans reflected on the 2014 season, they found themselves facing a mixture of nostalgia for Jeter’s farewell, frustration at missed opportunities, and anticipation for the changes that lay ahead. The Yankees, an embodiment of baseball tradition and excellence, were set to navigate the complexities of transition in their quest for future success.

2014 New York Yankees’ most memorable game

Amid a challenging season, the 2014 New York Yankees witnessed an unforgettable moment on September 25 at Yankee Stadium. This day marked Derek Jeter’s final game at shortstop, a position he had manned with unparalleled grace and skill throughout his illustrious career. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as fans gathered to witness the iconic captain bid farewell to the position that had become synonymous with his name.

Despite the 2014 New York Yankees being eliminated from postseason contention the day before, Jeter remained committed to making his last appearance at shortstop a special one. Manager Joe Girardi, respecting Jeter’s decision-making autonomy in these final games, allowed the captain to choose the extent of his participation. The anticipation built as fans wondered whether Jeter would play all three remaining games in Boston, but the legendary shortstop had other plans.

In a postgame announcement, Jeter revealed his intention to DH in the upcoming series against the Red Sox out of respect for the rivalry and its fans. This decision meant that Thursday night’s game at Yankee Stadium would be the last time Jeter would don his familiar shortstop’s glove in front of the home crowd.

The game against the Orioles unfolded as a fitting tribute to Jeter’s farewell to shortstop. In a dramatic turn of events, Jeter delivered the game-winning hit, driving in the decisive run in the Yankees’ 6-5 victory. As the stadium erupted in cheers, Jeter seized the opportunity to savour one last moment at shortstop. After the game, he returned to the field, kneeled, and absorbed the overwhelming adoration from the fans.

Reflecting on the experience, Jeter expressed gratitude and disbelief at the outpouring of support. The culmination of a dream that began in his early childhood, playing shortstop for the New York Yankees, reached a poignant conclusion. Jeter’s final act at shortstop was not just a baseball game; it was a manifestation of a lifelong journey, an emotional farewell that left an indelible mark on the hearts of Yankees fans and the history of the sport.

2014 New York Yankees season in videos

Postseason Result

(Didn’t make it to playoffs)

2014 New York Yankees roster

2014 New York Yankees additions, transactions, and trades

Offseason:

• Managerial Signing (October 9, 2013): Manager Joe Girardi signed a four-year, $16 million contract.
• Derek Jeter Deal (November 1, 2013): Shortstop Derek Jeter signed a one-year, $12 million deal.
• Brendan Ryan Signing (November 18, 2013): Utility infielder Brendan Ryan signed a two-year, $5 million deal with a mutual option for 2016.
• Brian McCann Signing (December 3, 2013): Catcher Brian McCann signed a five-year, $85 million deal with a vesting option for a sixth year.
• Catcher Chris Stewart was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates for a player to be named later.
• Jacoby Ellsbury Signing (December 3, 2013): Outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury signed a seven-year, $153 million deal with an option for 2021.
• Kelly Johnson Signing (December 4, 2013): Utility player Kelly Johnson signed a one-year, $3 million deal.
• Robinson Canó Departure (December 6, 2013): Second baseman Robinson Canó signed a ten-year, $240 million deal with the Seattle Mariners.
• Curtis Granderson Departure (December 6, 2013): Outfielder Curtis Granderson signed a four-year, $60 million deal with the New York Mets.
• Hiroki Kuroda Signing (December 6, 2013): Pitcher Hiroki Kuroda signed a one-year, $16 million deal.
• Carlos Beltrán Signing (December 6, 2013): Outfielder Carlos Beltrán signed a three-year, $45 million deal.
• Brian Roberts and Matt Thornton Signings (December 17, 2013): Infielder Brian Roberts signed a one-year, $2 million deal.
• Reliever Matt Thornton signed a two-year, $7.5 million contract.
• Masahiro Tanaka Signing (January 22, 2014): Starting pitcher Masahiro Tanaka signed a seven-year, $155 million deal with an opt-out clause.
• Andrew Bailey Signing (February 22, 2014): Relief pitcher Andrew Bailey signed a minor league deal.
• Brett Gardner Extension (February 24, 2014): Outfielder Brett Gardner extended his contract with a 4-year, $52 million deal, with a club option for 2019.
• Derek Jeter Retirement Announcement (February 12, 2014): Shortstop Derek Jeter announced that the 2014 season would be his final season.

Midseason:

• Alfonso Soriano Release (July): Outfielder/designated hitter Alfonso Soriano was designated for assignment and later released.
• Yangervis Solarte Trade (July 22, 2014): Infielder Yangervis Solarte and minor league pitcher Rafael De Paula were traded to the San Diego Padres for third baseman Chase Headley and cash considerations.
• Trade Deadline Moves (July 31, 2014): Prospect Peter O’Brien was traded to Arizona for Martín Prado. Kelly Johnson was traded to Boston for Stephen Drew. Esmil Rogers was acquired from Toronto. Scott Sizemore was unconditionally released.

Who left the 2014 New York Yankees:

• RHP Mariano Rivera (retired)
• LHP Andy Pettitte (retired)
• RHP Phil Hughes (signed with Twins)
• C Chris Stewart (traded to Pirates)
• 1B/RF Lyle Overbay (signed with Brewers)
• IF Eduardo Núñez (traded to Twins)
• IF Robinson Canó (signed with Mariners)
• IF Jayson Nix (signed with Rays)
• OF Curtis Granderson (signed with Mets)
• OF Vernon Wells (released)
• IF Mark Reynolds (signed with Brewers)
• RHP Joba Chamberlain (signed with Tigers)
• IF Kevin Youkilis (signed with Golden Eagles)
• RHP Brett Marshall (waiver claim by Cubs)
• LHP David Huff (waiver claim by Giants)
• LHP Boone Logan (signed with Rockies)
• IF David Adams (signed with Indians)
• Bullpen coach Mike Harkey

Additions:

• OF Jacoby Ellsbury (free agent)
• IF Brian Roberts (free agent)
• OF Carlos Beltrán (free agent)
• RHP Masahiro Tanaka (free agent)
• LHP Matt Thornton (free agent)
• C Brian McCann (free agent)
• RHP Andrew Bailey (free agent)
• IF Scott Sizemore (free agent)
• IF Kelly Johnson (free agent)
• Bullpen coach Gary Tuck

2014 New York Yankees debuts

• Dean Anna – 04-04-2014 – 27 years old
• Shane Greene – 04-24-2014 – 25 years old
• Bryan Mitchell – 08-10-2014 – 23 years old
• Jose Pirela – 09-22-2014 – 24 years old
• Jose Ramirez – 06-04-2014 – 24 years old
• Yangervis Solarte – 04-02-2014 – 26 years old
• Masahiro Tanaka – 04-04-2014 – 25 years old
• Zelous Wheeler – 07-03-2014 – 27 years old
• Chase Whitley – 05-15-2014 – 24 years old

2014 New York Yankees team stats (batting)

2014 New York Yankees team stats (pitching)

2014 New York Yankees vs. opponents/ team splits

2014 New York Yankees monthly record

2014 New York Yankees All-Stars

• Derek Jeter
• Dellin Betances
• Masahiro Tanaka

2014 New York Yankees best moments

Teixeira’s Beekeeping Ballet: In a memorable spring training spectacle against the Red Sox, Mark Teixeira took center stage as an unintentional beekeeper. A swarm of bees descended, causing an unexpected delay and prompting Tex to contemplate a sweet solution.

His ingenious plan? “What I thought was, if you could just do a line of honey out to the parking lot, the bees would maybe follow it, and then just leave us alone,” mused Tex, showcasing his creative approach to bee management.

Captain Troll Strikes Again: Derek Jeter and Ichiro Suzuki, despite facing plate struggles, found solace in their shared amusement. Post-Ichiro’s lone home run of the season, Captain Jeter sported the ultimate troll face, feigning indifference with a touch of humor. Lulz ensued in the dugout.

“It’s a Tarp!” Chronicles: Amidst the season’s rain delays, July 23rd stood out for its unexpected entertainment: “Rain Delay Theater.” An extended delay, complete with ridiculous GIFs, featured a grounds crew member wrestling with the tarp, prompting collective amusement.

Tarp Trap Tribute: In a silent homage to the unsung hero of “Rain Delay Theater,” we pay respects to the grounds crew member entangled in a tarp struggle. A moment of silence for his valiant efforts.

Gardner’s Pizza Play: Caught in the act during the rain-induced downtime, Brett Gardner was spotted on the bullpen phone, typically reserved for calling relief pitchers. Speculation abounded that Gardner, a man of practical priorities, was discreetly ordering a pizza to weather the delay.

Ryan’s Solo Celebration: Brendan Ryan, not known for his batting prowess, managed a rare feat on July 3rd with a double against the Twins. Expecting a fist bump from first base coach Mick Kelleher, Ryan found himself snubbed. Undeterred, he took matters into his own hands, delivering a self-administered fist bump with undeniable style. Honorable indeed.

How do you rate the 2014 New York Yankees?

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