Will Aaron Boone likely return as Yankees’ manager?

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New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone, despite having a contract that extends through 2024 with a club option for 2025, expressed uncertainty about his future with the team. The Yankees’ 2023 season has been marked by disappointment, as they currently hold a record of 79-77, and their playoff hopes were dashed earlier. This .506 winning percentage stands as the worst during Boone’s six-year tenure and is the club’s lowest since 1992.

When questioned about his job security, Boone calmly replied, “No, I don’t worry about it. It’s out of my hands. I’m completely comfortable with who I am and the things I can control.” Reports have suggested that general manager Brian Cashman is not inclined to dismiss Boone, which means any change in leadership would come from higher management. Boone, however, seems to be preparing for a return and is focused on making improvements for the future.

Evaluating the season under Boone’s leadership

In Boone’s view, his primary responsibility is to prepare for the offseason and position the team for a championship run. He stated, “My job is, in my mind, doing everything to head into the offseason to prepare to put us in a better position to try and compete for a championship. That’s what the goal is, and until they take that away, that’s my focus.”

Before the 2023 season, the Yankees had made the playoffs every year under Boone’s leadership, including three appearances in the American League Championship Series since 2017. The team’s performance in 2023 has prompted evaluations of how it operated under Boone’s guidance. Boone acknowledged that these assessments would be part of organizational conversations and expressed his willingness to make adjustments to ensure a better future for the team.

A season without playoffs and Aaron Judge’s proactive role

This season marks the first time since 2016 that the Yankees will not be participating in the playoffs. In response to this, Yankees captain and outfielder Aaron Judge has voiced his intention to take a proactive role in the offseason to steer the organization back on track. Judge emphasized that change would not happen overnight, and the team had a lot of work ahead to address issues and make necessary improvements.

Speculation on Boone’s future

Rumors have circulated throughout the second half of the season suggesting significant changes are imminent. Despite this speculation, it appears that Boone will retain his position as the club’s manager for the 2024 season, according to reports from USA Today Sports’ Bob Nightengale. Boone himself commented on the situation, saying, “That’s ultimately not my decision. So, we’ll see.”

Boone assumed the role of Yankees manager in 2018 and made history by becoming the first manager in Major League Baseball to win 100 or more games in each of his first two seasons. While the Yankees have faced challenges and underperformance this season, it’s important to note the significant injuries that have plagued the team. Many other teams have also grappled with injuries, but the Yankees have been particularly affected.

Looking ahead, the Yankees are expected to be active in the upcoming offseason, likely adding one or two starting pitchers to bolster their roster. With Boone under contract through the 2024 season, it would make sense for the team to provide him with another full season, given an improved roster and hopefully better health. If struggles persist in the next season, a managerial change may be considered, but it seems premature to make such a decision at this time.

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