Hal Steinbrenner Backs Boone, Blames Yankees Hitters

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Hal Steinbrenner Backs Yankees Leadership as Pressure Builds on Aaron Boone

Hal Steinbrenner defended Brian Cashman and Aaron Boone while pointing to the players’ lack of hitting. The candid criticism was refreshing and reminiscent of George Steinbrenner, who famously criticized Winfield by calling him “Mr. May.”

Under the Steinbrenners and Cashman, the Yankees have been a model of regular-season consistency, even though that success has not carried into the postseason. They continue to reconfigure the roster before largely running it back each year, an approach that understandably frustrates fans.

However, the Yankees sent a significant message by not extending Boone’s contract. He will enter the final year of his deal, which is rare for a Major League manager. Teams usually add another year to avoid questions about a manager’s future throughout the season.

If the Yankees have a difficult season or fail to reach the World Series, a managerial change appears possible. Winning the World Series is less predictable, but reaching it could be the standard Boone must meet.

Free agency opens in less than two weeks, and teams cannot wait for a potential new CBA in February or March. That uncertainty could produce an especially active November. If the Yankees plan to make an impact in free agency, they may need to act quickly.

Still, the Yankees’ roster changes may be more likely to come through trades. The free-agent market does not appear to offer many game-changing players. Randy Rosarina was identified as one of the most desirable options and a potentially good fit for the Yankees, although he could command more money than expected and sign elsewhere.

The pitching staff is expected to return largely intact, which was viewed as the right decision. Questions remain elsewhere on the roster, including Jazz, Grisham and Stanton. With Stanton, the Yankees simply have to accept whatever production he can provide.

The organization has also had highly touted prospects such as Spencer Jones and Dominguez. George Lombard Jr. was highlighted as a promising piece for the future who could benefit from being a year older and going through the experience a second time.

Ultimately, the Yankees need to add more hitters who make contact and consistently put the ball in play.