Yankees opt for stability with Boone’s 2025 contract amid fan debate

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 11: Manager Aaron Boone #17 of the New York Yankees looks on from the dugout prior to the game between the Kansas City Royals and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 in New York, New York
MLB
Amanda Paula
Friday November 8, 2024

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The New York Yankees have officially exercised their 2025 club option on manager Aaron Boone, ensuring his return to lead the team next season.

Boone, now 51, holds an impressive managerial record of 603-429 (.584) and has guided the Yankees to postseason play in six of his first seven seasons, a feat matched only by the Dodgers’ Dave Roberts. Excluding the shortened 2020 season, Boone’s Yankees have consistently won around 95 games each year. His tenure is also marked by three American League East division titles and, most recently, an American League pennant in 2024, which secured the Yankees’ first World Series appearance since 2009.

Despite this success, Boone has faced criticism from fans, particularly regarding decisions made during the World Series. Notably, his choice to remove ace Gerrit Cole after 88 pitches in Game 1 drew scrutiny, with former Yankees like Derek Jeter and Joe Girardi questioning the move. Additionally, Boone’s decision to bring in Nestor Cortes in a high-pressure situation during extra innings was criticized after the Dodgers clinched the game with a walk-off grand slam.

Despite these controversies, the Yankees’ front office has expressed confidence in Boone’s leadership. General Manager Brian Cashman stated, “I’m a big Aaron Boone fan,” indicating the organization’s support for Boone’s return in 2025.

Yankees among league’s top teams under Boone

Aaron Boone celebrates after the Yankees' win over the Guardians on Oct. 19, 2024. Aaron Boone celebrates after the Yankees’ win over the Guardians on Oct. 19, 2024.
USA Today

Under Boone’s leadership, the Yankees have become one of the American League’s most competitive teams, trailing only the Dodgers, Astros, and Braves for best records since 2018. Boone has reached at least 90 wins in five seasons, placing the Yankees among an elite group of franchises, alongside the Dodgers and Astros, that have maintained this standard.

Reflecting on the extension, Boone expressed gratitude: “It’s a great privilege to show up for work every day and be surrounded by so many determined and talented players, coaches, and staff members. I’m already looking forward to spring training in Tampa and working to bring the Yankees back to the postseason to compete for a World Championship.”

Brian Cashman’s praise for Boone’s Leadership

Yankees manager Aaron Boone stands in the dugout before an April 2024 game against the Red Sox.
NJ

Senior Vice President and General Manager Brian Cashman praised Boone’s ability to foster strong connections within the high-pressure New York market. “Aaron is a steadying presence in our clubhouse and has a profound ability to connect with his players. As we chase the ultimate prize in 2025, I am thrilled to have Aaron back to lead our team,” Cashman said.

Boone’s place among Yankees greats

Boone ranks seventh in all-time managerial wins for the Yankees, following iconic managers such as Joe McCarthy and Casey Stengel. His 22 postseason wins are the fifth-most in franchise history, reinforcing his strong record in high-stakes games. Boone’s impact was evident as early as his rookie managerial season in 2018, when he led the team to a 100-62 record, becoming one of only six managers in history to reach 100 wins in a debut season.

Before his managerial career, Boone enjoyed a successful 12-season career as a third baseman, most notably with the Yankees in 2003. His “walk-off” home run against the Boston Red Sox in the 2003 ALCS Game 7 remains a defining moment in Yankees lore. Boone also comes from baseball royalty—his family is the first to produce three generations of Major League players, including his father Bob Boone and grandfather Ray Boone.

Boone, initially drafted by the Cincinnati Reds, joined the Yankees as their 33rd manager in December 2017. In 2021, he signed a three-year contract extension with a club option for 2025, underscoring the organization’s long-term confidence in his leadership as they continue to pursue a World Series title.

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Unless keeping Boone was part of Soto’s request, you are 10000% wrong. Boone has the job because whether it’s 2018, or 2025, Boone has done everything Cashman wants his Manager to do, which #1 is to cover for him and his gang who insist on very moves during a game. There is just too much risk and potential exposure for Cashman if he sends Boone packing.

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