#aaron_boone

Yankees Designate Cade Winquest For Assignment The New York Yankees officially designated Rule 5 pick Cade Winquest for assignment on April 10, following the recall of right-handed pitcher Luis Gil. The move was reported by Jon Heyman of The New York Post on April 9, citing that Winquest, a 25-year-old right-handed reliever, did not appear in a game during his two-week stint in the team’s bullpen. The decision aligns with manager Aaron Boone’s plan to bring up Gil, who is set to start the team’s series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday. Boone indicated over the weekend that Gil would be recalled this week, with the 28-year-old listed as the probable starter opposite Steven Matz. The move was necessitated by the 13-pitcher limit, which required the Yankees to trim their roster from nine to eight relievers. Despite the need to reduce the bullpen, the team opted to retain key arms like Brent Headrick and Jake Bird, who have shown effectiveness in spring training. Fernando Cruz and Camilo Doval were the only other relievers with minor league options, leaving Winquest as the designated player to be sent down. Winquest’s spring performance was underwhelming, as he allowed nine runs (eight earned) with eight strikeouts and four walks across 10 innings. His struggles led to surprise that he broke camp with the Yankees, as the team did not find a scenario where Boone felt comfortable using him in regular-season games. Rule 5 picks are typically used as low-leverage relievers early in the season, and Winquest’s lack of trust from the manager contributed to his designation. The Yankees’ decision also reflects their strategy for the season, as they had previously run a four-man rotation due to their off-day schedule.#new_york_yankees #aaron_boone #st_louis_cardinals #luis_gil #cade_winquest

Amed Rosario's Heroic Performance Leads Yankees to Victory Over Athletics The New York Yankees secured a 5-3 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Tuesday night, thanks in large part to a standout performance by Amed Rosario. The second baseman, who had been sidelined for weeks due to a slump, delivered a career-high two home runs, including a game-changing three-run blast in the eighth inning. Yankees manager Aaron Boone’s decision to start Rosario over third baseman Ryan McMahon proved pivotal, as the 28-year-old outfielder’s preparation and energy helped the Yankees overcome a tough matchup against right-handed pitcher Aaron Civale. Boone, who typically starts McMahon against right-handed pitching, opted for Rosario after observing his recent struggles. McMahon, currently on a 2-for-23 skid, had not been a reliable option, prompting Boone to trust his instincts. “I knew Rosario would be ready,” Boone said. “He’s always been a guy who stays prepared, and he brings a lot of energy to the clubhouse.” Rosario’s readiness was evident from the outset, as he had been recovering from a minor injury sustained in April and returned to full strength without needing a rehab assignment. The Yankees’ familiarity with right-handed pitcher Mark Leiter Jr., a former teammate from 2023, also played a role in Rosario’s success. Leiter, who had joined the Yankees in 2023 and was part of the team that reached the 2024 World Series, entered the game during the eighth inning. His presence helped spark a rally, as Giancarlo Stanton’s single scored Cody Bellinger to make it 3-2. Two batters later, Rosario launched a Statcast-projected 414-foot home run to give the Yankees a two-run lead. “I was looking for a pitch where I could do some damage,” Rosario said through interpreter Marlon Abreu. “I got it.#new_york_yankees #aaron_boone #oakland_athletics #amed_rosario #mark_leiter_jr

Giancarlo Stanton's Resilience Leads Yankees to 9-7 Victory Over Marlins The New York Yankees showcased their aggressive and athletic nature during a rain-soaked game at Yankee Stadium, overcoming a four-run deficit to secure a 9-7 win against the Miami Marlins. Giancarlo Stanton played a pivotal role, delivering a tiebreaking two-run single and stealing a base in the seventh inning to highlight the team’s resilience. The victory extended the Yankees’ season-opening record to 7-1, matching their best start through eight games in franchise history and marking their first time winning seven of their first eight games in a full season since 2003. The game began with the Marlins taking an early 4-0 lead, but the Yankees mounted a comeback in the fifth inning. Cody Bellinger ignited the rally with a two-run home run, his first of the season, which also atoned for a throwing error he committed earlier in the game. Bellinger’s heroics helped the Yankees cut the deficit to 4-2, setting the stage for a dramatic turn in the sixth inning. A three-run rally featuring run-scoring hits from Trent Grisham and Aaron Judge gave New York a 7-5 lead, and Bellinger’s sacrifice fly sealed the Yankees’ first advantage of the game. Manager Aaron Boone praised the team’s offensive execution, stating, “The quality of at-bats never went away. It’s a scoring competition, not a hit competition. It seemed like everyone had a big at-bat tonight in some way, shape or form.” The Yankees’ resilience was further underscored by Stanton’s performance. After leading off the seventh inning with a walk, Stanton capitalized on a defensive lapse by the Marlins, stealing his first base since Game 3 of the 2024 American League Division Series. “If they’re going to give it to me like that, I’ve got to go get it,” Stanton said.#new_york_yankees #miami_marlins #aaron_boone #cody_bellinger #giancarlo_stanton

Aaron Judge Sets Tone with Text and Home Run in Yankees' Home Opener NEW YORK -- Late Thursday night, with the New York Yankees' home opener scheduled for the next morning, Aaron Judge sent a mass text to his teammates: "Suits tomorrow." The message, a directive the captain has occasionally used over the years, aimed to set a tone for the team. His teammates responded by reporting to work at Yankee Stadium for the first of 81 home games in their finest threads, a tradition that underscores the significance of the season's opening. The following day, Judge immediately made an impact on the field, crushing a two-run home run in his first plate appearance at home this season. The blast, which gave the Yankees a lead they never relinquished, came against the Miami Marlins in an 8-2 victory in front of a sellout crowd of 48,788. The home run, Judge's third in seven games this season, highlighted his early-season dominance. " That's what he does best," Yankees first baseman Ben Rice said. "Coming out, swinging out the gate like that for us is huge. It's just so contagious and got everybody going." The sentiment reflected the team's energy, which was amplified by Judge's performance. His home run off Marlins right-hander Eury Perez not only set the tone for the game but also signaled the Yankees' intent to dominate from the outset. Judge's impact extended beyond the home run. An inning later, he was hit by a pitch on his right forearm with the bases loaded, prompting gasps and brief panic among fans. However, Judge emerged unscathed and stayed in the game, a testament to his resilience. The incident brought back memories of a similar moment in 2018 when Judge missed six weeks with a fractured right wrist after being plunked. "I've broken my wrist like that, so that's always the main concern," Judge said.#new_york_yankees #miami_marlins #aaron_judge #aaron_boone #ben_rice

Cam Schlittler strikes out eight in first Yankees start of 2026 Cam Schlittler made a strong debut for the Yankees in 2026, delivering a dominant performance in his first start of the season. The young right-hander struck out eight batters over 5 1/3 innings, leading the team to a 3-0 victory over the Giants at Oracle Park. Schlittler’s efficiency and control were key, as he navigated a limited pitch count while keeping the Giants’ lineup in check. The game ended with a shutout, thanks to a strong relief effort from Fernando Cruz, Tim Hill, Camilo Doval, and David Bednar, who combined for 3 2/3 scoreless innings. Manager Aaron Boone praised Schlittler’s ability to reach the sixth inning, calling it a crucial step in the team’s success. “To get into the sixth inning really set us up,” Boone said. “And then the ‘pen was outstanding. Each guy, I thought, did a really nice job. It was a really good win.” The Yankees’ pitching staff, including Schlittler, demonstrated resilience and precision, securing a clean victory against a formidable opponent. Schlittler’s performance marked a significant milestone for the team. Paired with Max Fried’s scoreless start earlier in the week, the duo became the first in franchise history to open a season with back-to-back shutouts. This achievement also highlighted the Yankees’ confidence in their young pitching rotation, which has been a focal point of their “run it back” strategy. Schlittler, in particular, has been a standout since his callup last season, posting a 2.96 ERA in 14 regular-season starts and delivering a standout performance in the American League Wild Card Series. The 2026 season opener saw Schlittler continue his impressive trajectory. He showcased his ability to mix fastballs, curveballs, and a sharp cutter, touching 100.1 mph during the game.#giants #yankees #aaron_boone #oracle_park #cam_schlittler

Randal Grichuk's Role with the Yankees: A Focus on Left-Handed Pitching The New York Yankees have signed Randal Grichuk with the primary goal of leveraging his ability to hit left-handed pitching. At 34 years old, Grichuk has been slow to join spring training, arriving only recently as the team prepares for the regular season. With just over two weeks remaining until the season starts, the Yankees are prioritizing maximizing his plate appearances to build his readiness for the upcoming games. Manager Aaron Boone emphasized the urgency of getting Grichuk into game action, noting that the team is deep into spring training and cannot afford to wait for a left-handed starter to face him. This strategy was evident when Grichuk was included in the lineup for Monday night’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, despite the opposing pitcher being a right-hander. Boone explained that the team’s focus is on providing Grichuk with as many opportunities as possible to accumulate innings and repetitions, even if it means facing right-handed pitchers early in his return. Grichuk is not scheduled to play in Tuesday’s day game against the Philadelphia Phillies in Clearwater, Florida, further highlighting the team’s emphasis on time and at-bats. Boone expressed confidence that Grichuk’s experience will be valuable, particularly in the outfield, where he has a strong history of performance. He noted that Grichuk’s ability to handle left-handed pitching is a key asset, and the team is working to support him in the outfield with adjustments to improve his range and positioning. The Yankees’ decision to include Grichuk in the Opening Day roster has also raised questions about the status of Jasson Domínguez, the switch-hitting outfielder who has struggled against left-handed pitching from the right side.#new_york_yankees #philadelphia_phillies #pittsburgh_pirates #aaron_boone #randal_grichuk

Yankees Select Randal Grichuk's Contract for 2026 Season The New York Yankees have selected the contract of outfielder Randal Grichuk, securing his place on the Opening Day roster. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed the decision to reporters, including New York Post’s Greg Joyce, stating Grichuk will be part of the team’s 26-man roster for the 2026 season. With a full 40-man roster already in place, the Yankees will need to make a transaction to add Grichuk before the team’s first game on Wednesday. Grichuk, who signed a minor league deal last month, will earn a $2.5 million salary in 2026. As an Article XX(B) free agent, his contract included three opt-out clauses. The first opt-out was set for this weekend, but the Yankees avoided the potential loss by adding him to the 26-man roster. This move ensures Grichuk remains with the team despite his limited role. The Yankees’ starting outfield will consist of Aaron Judge, Trent Grisham, and Cody Bellinger. Grichuk and utilityman Amed Rosario will serve as backup options. While Giancarlo Stanton may see some time in the outfield, he is expected to primarily function as a designated hitter. Fans may express disappointment over Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones being sent to Triple-A, as the team prioritizes their development over Grichuk’s sporadic playing time. Grichuk, a right-handed hitter, is likely to see most of his action when a left-handed pitcher is on the mound. His performance against right-handed pitchers has declined over the years, but he remains a threat against left-handed hitters. Last season, he posted a .227/.273/.430 slash line in 183 plate appearances against lefties while playing for the Diamondbacks and Royals. During spring training, Grichuk struggled with a .#diamondbacks #new_york_yankees #aaron_boone #randal_grichuk #greg_joyce

Luis Gil to Begin 2026 Season in Minor Leagues The New York Yankees have confirmed that right-handed pitcher Luis Gil will start the 2026 season in Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre rather than joining the major league bullpen. The 27-year-old, who was named American League Rookie of the Year in 2024, will open the season in the minors after the team opted for a four-man rotation to begin the campaign. Manager Aaron Boone announced the decision on Tuesday, stating that Gil’s goal is to eventually return to the starting rotation when the Yankees need a fifth starter. Gil, who pitched 19 1/3 innings this spring with a 4.66 ERA and 1.29 WHIP, will participate in live throwing sessions in Florida this week before joining the Triple-A team. Boone emphasized that Gil’s physical condition is at its peak, noting that strength and conditioning evaluations have placed him in the best shape of his career. “He’s as strong as he’s ever been,” Boone said, adding that the team hopes his spring performance will translate into success in the minors. The Yankees’ decision to send Gil to the minors was not a reflection of his spring progress, according to Boone. Instead, the manager highlighted the competitive nature of the roster, noting that multiple pitchers are vying for a spot in the rotation. “There’s a lot of people pushing for competition right now that are pushing themselves into the conversation,” Boone said. “That competition is going to remain, so it’s important that [Gil] continues the trajectory he’s been on since the start of camp.” In addition to Gil, the Yankees have finalized their bullpen for 2026, with Cade Winquest, Brent Headrick, and Jake Bird joining the roster. Headrick, a left-handed reliever, posted a 2.#new_york_yankees #aaron_boone #luis_gil #cade_winquest #triple_a_scrantonwilkesbarre

Yankees' Aaron Boone Shares Big George Lombard Jr. Outlook The New York Yankees have taken a measured approach with their top prospect George Lombard Jr., who struggled during spring training but remains in their plans for the 2026 MLB season. The 20-year-old shortstop recorded 28 at-bats, hitting .179 with one home run, six RBIs, and two stolen bases, according to MLB.com. Despite his limited offensive output, the Yankees have decided to send him to minor league camp, a move that underscores their focus on long-term development over immediate results. Lombard, who last played above Double-A in 2025, has yet to make his major league debut. Yankees manager Aaron Boone emphasized the importance of refining Lombard’s hitting skills, noting that the young player’s progress will be the key to his future success. “We just need to keep developing the hit tool and continue improving in that area,” Boone said. “He finished at Double-A last year, where he had some struggles but also some success. Right now, the focus is on getting him going. But I wouldn’t rule out the possibility that he’s closer than people think.” Meanwhile, another Yankees shortstop, Anthony Volpe, is nearing a return after undergoing offseason surgery on his non-throwing shoulder. Volpe spoke with YES Network’s Meredith Marakovits about his recovery, describing the process as a “natural progression” of returning to live at-bats. “I feel pretty good about where I’m at, progressing as expected,” he said. “There are still checkpoints I’m not doing yet, but I’m really optimistic and excited. I feel like it’s going to be sooner rather than later.” Volpe, who has never been injured before, expressed determination to move past the setback and make an impact in 2026. “I’m just excited to put it behind me and get back out there,” he added.#yankees #anthony_volpe #aaron_boone #george_lombard_jr #yes_network

Veteran Outfielder Randal Grichuk Joins Yankees' Opening Day Roster New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed Saturday that veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk has secured a spot on the team’s Opening Day roster. The announcement came as the Yankees also revealed their decisions to send infielder Paul DeJong and utilityman Seth Brown to minor league camp, while optioning utilityman Oswaldo Cabrera and infielder Max Schuemann to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Grichuk, 34, is entering his 13th Major League season after a 2025 campaign in which he appeared in 113 games across the Arizona Diamondbacks and Kansas City Royals. During that time, he posted a .228 batting average, a .273 on-base percentage, nine home runs, and 27 RBIs. His performance this past season marks his second stint with the Royals, following a brief spell with the Diamondbacks in 2024. Throughout his 12-year career, Grichuk has established himself as a consistent contributor. He has compiled a .251 batting average, a .298 on-base percentage, 212 home runs, and 629 RBIs. His professional journey has included stints with the St. Louis Cardinals (2014–2017), Toronto Blue Jays (2018–2021), Colorado Rockies (2022–2023), Los Angeles Angels (2023), Diamondbacks (2024–2025), and Royals (2025). Boone’s decision to include Grichuk on the Opening Day roster underscores his value as a reliable offensive presence. The Yankees’ move reflects a strategic effort to balance experience with the potential for younger players to develop in the minors. Grichuk’s inclusion also highlights the team’s focus on maintaining depth in the outfield, a position that has seen significant turnover in recent years. The Yankees’ roster adjustments will be closely watched as they prepare for the 2025 season.#new_york_yankees #aaron_boone #randal_grichuk #paul_dejong #oswaldo_cabrera

Yankees Optimistic About Spring Training, Gerrit Cole's Tommy John Recovery New York Yankees star Gerrit Cole has expressed optimism about his recovery from Tommy John surgery, as he continues to make progress during spring training. The right-handed pitcher, who has been sidelined since undergoing the procedure last year, took another significant step in his rehabilitation with a dominant performance against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday. Cole’s outing marked his second appearance of the spring and signaled that he is on track to return to the Yankees’ rotation within two months. Cole, who has been working closely with the team’s medical staff, showcased his pre-injury form during the game. He threw a six-batter inning, striking out three of the first four batters he faced without issuing a walk. His fastball reached speeds of 96 to 98 mph, with 11 pitches exceeding 96 mph. Despite allowing a 416-foot home run to All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman, Cole remained confident in his performance. “That was a good pitch,” he said, “but a better swing. So it’s the way it goes with good players sometimes.” The Yankees’ spring training camp has been a source of excitement for the team, with Cole’s recovery progress and the overall depth of the roster contributing to a positive atmosphere. Manager Aaron Boone highlighted the team’s strong start, noting that the competition for roster spots has been fierce. “I feel like we’re going to have competition brewing for opportunities throughout the year because of our depth,” Boone said. “And hopefully that remains with good health and good performance.” Cole’s journey back to full strength has been marked by patience and dedication. After a prolonged layoff since the 2024 World Series, he has embraced the opportunity to reconnect with the game’s intensity.#yankees #alex_bregman #san_francisco_giants #aaron_boone #gerrit_cole

Yankees' Gerrit Cole Struggles in Final Spring Training Test, 'Had Fun' Veteran right-hander Gerrit Cole, who missed the entire 2024 season for the New York Yankees after undergoing Tommy John surgery, expressed optimism following his second and final spring training appearance before returning to Florida for further preparation. Cole, 35, pitched 1⅔ innings in the Yankees’ spring finale against the Chicago Cubs in Mesa, Arizona, throwing 26 pitches while striking out three batters and allowing just one run—a home run by Alex Bregman. Cole, whose last official game came in Game 5 of the 2024 World Series, will head to Tampa, Florida, for additional work and is projected to make his season debut in late May or early June. The Yankees’ season opener is set against the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday. During his outing, Cole’s fastball averaged 96.3 mph, with a peak of 98 mph. He utilized his full repertoire of pitches, including his knuckle curve, slider, sinker, changeup, and cutter. Of his 26 pitches, 17 were thrown for strikes. Cole described the experience as enjoyable, reflecting on the “level of talent, intensity, and demand” of the game. “It demands your focus and preparation, and I enjoy that,” he said. Signed to a $324 million, nine-year contract through 2028, Cole has a career record of 153-80 with a 3.18 ERA over 317 starts across stints with Pittsburgh (2013–2017), Houston (2018–2019), and the Yankees (since 2020). The Yankees also announced roster decisions, including sending Luis Gil to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to start the season. Manager Aaron Boone explained the move, stating Gil would likely join the minors to maintain a starting pitcher’s routine rather than stay with the team and serve as a reliever. “He was a little upset, but I feel like he’s in a good frame of mind,” Boone said.#chicago_cubs #yankees #alex_bregman #aaron_boone #gerrit_cole

Yankees Consider Moving Ryan McMahon to Shortstop Amid Anthony Volpe's Absence The New York Yankees are preparing to adjust their infield strategy ahead of the 2024 season, with a focus on giving Ryan McMahon a chance to play shortstop as Anthony Volpe remains sidelined. While McMahon has primarily been used as a third baseman, the team is open to expanding his role, signaling a shift in their approach to roster flexibility. This decision comes as Volpe, the team’s young shortstop, is expected to miss time due to injury, creating an opportunity for McMahon to step into the position. The Yankees’ willingness to adapt their lineup highlights the importance of having players who can contribute in multiple roles. McMahon’s ability to handle shortstop would provide the team with greater versatility, allowing them to manage their bench more effectively. This move could also ease pressure on Volpe, who has faced challenges in securing a consistent role at the hot corner. Manager Aaron Boone has expressed confidence in McMahon’s potential to play shortstop, stating that he would feel comfortable having the player take on the position in a regular season game. This endorsement suggests the Yankees are seriously considering the idea, rather than treating it as a temporary experiment. Boone’s comments indicate a strategic shift in how the team constructs its infield depth, prioritizing adaptability over rigid positional assignments. If the Yankees proceed with this plan, McMahon’s role will become a critical factor in shaping the team’s infield options. His ability to play shortstop would not only provide immediate flexibility but also enhance the team’s long-term depth.#new_york_yankees #major_league_baseball #anthony_volpe #ryan_mcmahon #aaron_boone

Ryan McMahon’s Defense Likely Adding Flexibility to Yankees’ Roster Construction The New York Yankees appear to be embracing Ryan McMahon’s role as their backup shortstop, a decision that could provide greater flexibility in shaping their roster for the upcoming season. During spring training, McMahon has been given the opportunity to showcase his defensive skills, with manager Aaron Boone expressing confidence in his ability to handle the position. Boone stated, “I think he could handle that,” indicating the team’s willingness to let McMahon serve as a reliable bench option rather than pushing him for a starting role. McMahon’s performance at shortstop during spring training has been a positive sign for the Yankees. While he has not yet been named the primary starter, his consistent play has earned him a spot in the lineup, allowing the team to explore other options for the starting shortstop position. This approach gives the Yankees more room to maneuver in their roster construction, particularly as they evaluate potential trades or free-agent signings. In addition to McMahon, the Yankees have seen promising performances from relievers Jake Bird and Yovanny Cruz. Bird demonstrated resilience during a recent outing, overcoming a controversial strikeout call via the ABS challenge system to record three strikeouts in a scoreless inning. Cruz, meanwhile, has continued to impress with his fastball, averaging 100.3 mph on his sinker, and has shown the ability to dominate batters in relief appearances. Despite a shoulder injury that initially delayed his progress in camp, Cruz remains in the running for a spot on the active roster. The Yankees’ spring training schedule also includes a notable milestone for Gerrit Cole, who will make his spring debut 53 weeks after undergoing Tommy John surgery.#new_york_yankees #ryan_mcmahon #aaron_boone #jake_bird #yovanny_cruz