Yankees manager Aaron Boone is somewhat bothered by the criticism of his team’s defense from Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Joe Kelly. He defended New York’s fielding after their mistakes and mental errors in the World Series.
“It’s a story that got blown out of proportion, and it’s understandable because we had a really tough inning,” Boone said on Monday. “But if you look at our season, there were many times we won because of big defensive plays or small-ball situations.”
Boone spoke during a Zoom call, three days after the Yankees picked up his option for 2025.
New York blew a five-run lead in Game 5 of the World Series when center fielder Aaron Judge and shortstop Anthony Volpe made errors, and pitcher Gerrit Cole didn’t cover first base on an infield grounder. The Dodgers won 7-6 to claim the title.
“The sting of not finishing it off stays with you forever,” Boone admitted.
Kelly, on his “Baseball Isn’t Boring” podcast, said the Dodgers entered each game with the attitude: “Just let them throw the ball into the infield. They can’t make a play.”
“We didn’t play as well as we could’ve,” Boone said. “We had a tough inning in Game 5, and that’s the ultimate disappointment. I try not to get too caught up in what others are saying, especially from certain places. Everyone has their opinions, and they’re entitled to them. I’m proud of what we do as a group, but of course, there are always things to improve.”
Boone has led the Yankees to a 603-429 record, three AL East titles, and one pennant. In October 2021, he agreed to a three-year contract with a team option for 2025. Boone mentioned that the team hasn’t discussed a deal beyond next season yet.
“We’ll see what happens, but I’m prepared and excited for 2025,” Boone said.
Boone is planning to fly to California to meet with owner Hal Steinbrenner and Juan Soto, who helped the Yankees reach the World Series for the first time since 2009 and is now a free agent. The 26-year-old hit .288 with 41 homers, 109 RBIs, and 129 walks, batting second in the order behind Judge.
“I want him in pinstripes moving forward,” Boone said. “But there will be a lot of teams competing for him, and who knows where it will go? We’ll do our best and hope Juan comes back.”
Boone also expects the Yankees to show interest in 23-year-old Japanese right-hander Roki Sasaki, who will be available for bidding this offseason.
“He’s really talented and very young. He has top-of-the-rotation qualities, and we hope to be in the mix for him,” Boone said. “I’ve seen video of him, and I know about his triple-digit fastball and forkball. He’s a guy you can picture coming over here and being a dominant ace.”
Boone expects at least one coaching change and possibly two for next season.
