Boone’s expectations from Gleyber Torres raise eyebrows

Yankees second baseman Gleyber Torres is facing the darkest phase of his career but manager Aaron Boone expects him to add a silver lining to the team’s 2024 campaign.

Ahead of the series opener against the Blue Jays, Boone underscored Gleyber Torres’ physical prime and solid track record as indicators of an impending rebound. He likened the second baseman’s current challenges to Aaron Judge‘s slow start in April, which was followed by a remarkable return to form. The skipper acknowledged the mental toll of baseball, describing it as a demanding sport that sometimes necessitates patience.

“We’re talking about someone that’s in the physical prime of his career that has a long, long track record of hitting,” he said just before the series started in Toronto. “There’s no reason to think we won’t get that out.”

But despite voicing his steadfast confidence in Gleyber Torres in public, Boone has benched the Yankee for several games, reflecting concern over his recent performance decline. The second baseman has struggled offensively and committed his league-leading 12th error at second base in Tuesday’s loss to the Mets. Additionally, he drew criticism for not running out a ground ball in the eighth inning of that game.

Nevertheless, Boone’s remarks indicate a continued belief in Gleyber Torres’ potential to overcome his slump and regain his form. However, his performance belies those expectations.

Gleyber Torres missed Wednesday’s 12-2 loss to the Mets, as the Yankees manager gave him a second consecutive day off to help the struggling second baseman reset both mentally and mechanically. He is expected to return to the lineup on Friday against a left-handed pitcher.

When asked about Gleyber Torres’ confidence, Boone expressed the belief that the Yankees star understands his potential to return to form. He suggested that players with a track record of success, like him, know they could overcome slumps. Boone emphasized the mental aspect of overcoming slumps, noting that improved performance often leads to a better mindset.

“I know how much Gleyber cares,” Boone said. “I know how hard he’s working behind the scenes, but I’ve also been in his shoes where the game is hard and it can beat you down. … I’m looking forward to what I know is going to be a resurgence for him at some point…….When you’re a good player, you’ve had the track record of success offensively that he’s had now, six years into his career, you know it’s in there. It’s hard to believe that sometimes when you’re going through it, and you feel that, but I think deep down, you know I just need to get it to click and get it firing and then you take off and your brain gets out of the way a little bit.”

Yankees hit hard by Gleyber Torres’ poor show

His performance has taken a significant hit compared to last season when he batted .273 with an .800 OPS. Through 80 games this year, he’s hitting .215 with a .628 OPS. This downturn has transformed Gleyber Torres from one of the Yankees’ most reliable hitters to a source of concern in the middle of the order, especially as he approaches free agency after this season.

Meanwhile, Gleyber Torres shared that he and Boone had a constructive discussion in Queens. During his time off, the Yankees second baseman has been working diligently in the batting cage to address issues with his swing. While he acknowledged that his swing isn’t where it should be, he emphasized that he remains mentally strong. Gleyber Torres expressed frustration at his inability to contribute effectively to the team and hoped his efforts during this break would lead to improved performance.

Boone explained that he has given Gleyber Torres and the hitting coaches the freedom to decide how best to use this time off, whether for mental rest or intensive swing work. The manager reiterated his confidence in him, praising the player’s dedication and hard work behind the scenes.

Gleyber Torres, once the Yankees‘ most dependable hitter last season, has seen a marked decline in his performance this year. Over 80 games, Torres is hitting just .215 with a .628 OPS, a notable drop from his previous consistency.

The Yankees star insists that his looming free agency isn’t impacting his play, but his struggles tell a different story. After a brief resurgence from May 12 to June 13, during which he batted .266 with a .808 OPS over 30 games, Gleyber Torres has fallen into a deep slump. In his last nine games, he’s managed only 2-for-29 (.069) with a .401 OPS.

His’ slump has mirrored a tough period for the Yankees, who have lost nine of their last 12 games. The team’s offense has largely depended on Anthony Volpe, Juan Soto, and Aaron Judge, while others have struggled to produce.

Defensively, Gleyber Torres has also had issues, committing two errors in his last four games before being benched. His lack of hustle on a ground ball during Tuesday’s loss to the Mets drew manager Aaron Boone’s attention, underscoring his difficulties both at bat and in the field.

Boone’s comments reflect a supportive stance toward Gleyber Torres, balancing acknowledgment of his current struggles with optimism for future improvement, and recognizing both the physical and mental aspects of overcoming a slump in professional baseball. But doubts persist about it considering his poor show.

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