NEW YORK — Anthony Volpe described the Yankees’ recent performance in one word: “Brutal.” From holding the best record in the majors at 49-21 through June 12, their fortunes have drastically reversed with a league-worst 5-15 record since then. Their struggles were epitomized by another deflating loss, this time to the Boston Red Sox. Masataka Yoshida’s tying, two-run homer off Clay Holmes in the ninth inning and Ceddanne Rafaela’s go-ahead homer in the tenth led to a 5-3 Boston victory. The Yankees’ woes have been compounded by the absence of key players Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton.
New York’s recent slump has seen them lose 14 of their last 18 games, a slide tracing back to Fenway Park on June 15. Struggles have been evident across the roster, with players failing to meet their potential. Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the difficulties, urging the team to dig deep and prepare for quick turnarounds. Mental mistakes and fundamental errors have cost the Yankees, as highlighted by a base-running blunder from Volpe and DJ LeMahieu during the game.
The Yankees’ bullpen has also faltered, with Holmes blowing two save opportunities since June 9, including a game-ending double allowed on June 13. Boston, enjoying a five-game winning streak and climbing in the standings, starkly contrasts New York’s downward spiral. With their position precariously shifting in the AL East standings, this period will indeed test the Yankees’ resilience and character, as captain Aaron Judge remarked on finding out “what you’re made of.”
