In a candid interview, New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman expressed unwavering support for manager Aaron Boone, while also addressing the team's subpar defensive performance in the recent World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Unwavering Support for Boone Amid Postseason Disappointment

Cashman's Endorsement of Boone's Leadership

Brian Cashman, the Yankees' general manager, made it clear that he has full confidence in Aaron Boone's abilities as the team's manager. Cashman described Boone as a "great manager" and stated that the organization is "lucky to have him." This endorsement comes despite the Yankees' disappointing performance in the World Series, where they fell to the Dodgers in five games.

Boone's Impressive Track Record with the Yankees

Boone has led the Yankees to a remarkable 603-429 record over the past seven seasons, including three American League East division titles and one pennant. This impressive resume has earned him the trust and support of the organization, as Cashman acknowledged the manager's significant contributions to the team's success.

Discussing Boone's Future with the Yankees

Cashman revealed that the team has a team option for Boone's contract in 2025, and the deadline for making a decision on that option is 10 days after the World Series. The general manager stated that he plans to discuss both the option and the possibility of a new contract with Boone, indicating that the organization is committed to maintaining stability and continuity in the team's leadership.

Defending Boone's Postseason Decisions

Cashman defended Boone's decision-making during the postseason, acknowledging the inherent challenges and second-guessing that come with the manager's role. The general manager praised Boone's overall performance, stating that he is "a really, really good manager" and that the team is "lucky to have him."

Acknowledging the World Series Disappointment

Cashman did not shy away from the team's poor performance in the World Series, admitting that the Yankees "played poorly" and that their "A' game didn't show up when it counted the most." He acknowledged the specific mistakes made by players, such as the errors by Aaron Judge and Anthony Volpe, as well as Gerrit Cole's failure to cover first base on a crucial play.

Responding to Criticism from Joe Kelly

Cashman addressed the criticism leveled by Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Joe Kelly, who had described the Yankees' defense as "sloppy" and suggested that the team might not be among the top playoff teams. The Yankees' general manager dismissed Kelly's comments as more representative of "specific players" rather than the team as a whole, and hinted at having had "internal conversations" with Dodgers personnel that provided a different perspective.

Defending the Yankees' Roster Makeup

Cashman rejected the notion that the Yankees' roster was poorly constructed, arguing that it is natural for players to excel in certain areas, such as offense, while struggling in others, like defense or baserunning. The general manager acknowledged that some players simply "aren't good at" certain skills, and that the team has to manage the players they have.Overall, Cashman's comments demonstrate his unwavering support for Aaron Boone and the Yankees' organization, while also addressing the team's shortcomings in the World Series and defending the roster's composition. The general manager's candid and professional approach suggests a commitment to maintaining stability and continuity within the Yankees' leadership, even in the face of postseason disappointment.