JUDGE WAKES UP & THE YANKEES ARE STILL ALIVE!

Set the pigeons free! The Yankees finally made some magic happen. I guess it's just like they say...it's better late than never? We live to see another day. A day....but I'm praying to the baseball gods that is turns into more than just one day.

We've played three games in the ALDS and we witnessed terrible starting pitching in ALL of them. I thought Max Fried was bad on Sunday but Carlos Rodon was a disaster! It looked bleak after he allowed 6 runs after 2 2/3 innings. It looked like winter was starting early....until the Yankees were given a gift.

Thankfully, Shane Bieber had a rough night also. He had a short appearance too, he was removed in the third inning after allowing three runs on five hits, one walk, and two strikeouts. He struggled against the Yankees top of the order, giving up back-to-back doubles in the second inning and being pulled with the Blue Jays up 6-3. The Blue Jays thought he would be an advantage for them. He has experience pitching at Yankee stadium, so the Blue Jays hoped he could put an end to the series. His elevated pitches did him in and the Yankees clearly read him well. They had some hard hit balls against him.

Then finally, Aaron Judge had his huge playoff moment that the Yankees (and all of us!) have been waiting for. He ran into a 99.7 mph fastball for a three-run homer off the left-field foul pole to tie the game at six. After that, everything seemed to fall into place as the Yankees stayed hot and the Blue Jays crumbled under bad defense.

Last night, the Blue Jays looked like the 2024 Yankees. Former Yankee Isiah Kiner-Falefa started the trend in the bottom of the first, booting a ground ball at second base. It helped the Yankees score a run. In the fourth inning, Blue Jays third baseman Addison Barger, missed a routine fly ball from Austin Wells with one out and nobody on. Barger was a pinch-hitter in the game and I thank the Blue Jays so much. Without his addition in the game, two batters later we may not have seen a Judge home run. The mistakes didn't end there. In the sixth inning, Anthony Santander couldn't catch a line drive from Cody Bellinger and gave the Yankees a double and an eventual run from the Yankees to pad their lead to 9-6.

This feels good now, but the Yankees can't celebrate this today. The Blue Jays are a good defensive team. What we saw last night is not typical and we can't rely on a sloppy game from them again. We need to swing the bats, move runners, play strong defense and PLEASE.....have a good start from Cam Schlittler.

The Blue Jays are approaching today as a bullpen game, but we have Schlittler! It's a lot of pressure for him, especially after what he just did against the Red Sox. 

We CAN tie this up today....I'm crossing every possible body part I can and praying to the baseball gods. Please Schlitt....keep us alive!

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor
Twitter: @nyprincessj

THE YANKEES ARE BUILDING THEIR SHORTSTOP FUTURE & VOLPE AIN'T IN IT

Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa will have a more significant focus on Volpe and him shitting the bed in today's game, but for me, right now... I just want to talk about the Yankees future in the field.

Let’s stop pretending. Anthony Volpe isn’t just slumping—he’s on a full-blown downward spiral. This isn’t a “young player working out the kinks” situation anymore. This is what happens when you fast-track a marketable kid with a clean face, the right connections, and zero college experience just to sell a few extra jerseys on Opening Day. And now the Yankees are dealing with the consequences and they should be ashamed of themselves.

Volpe was handed the keys to shortstop like he was the prince of The Bronx. But the fairy tale is cracking. Sunday’s 4-1 loss to the Cubs wasn’t just another bad day—it was a highlight reel of why the Yankees may already be planning a future without him.  (time is 6:16)

At the plate? Another 0-for-3. His hitless streak now has him 9-for-70 since June 23. Horrible. His batting average has dipped to an anemic .214. Mario Mendoza called me today and asked that I stop connecting his name with Volpe's. Why? BECAUSE IT'S THAT EMBARRASSING! 

Volpe's OPS? Try .671. Not exactly what you want from your starting shortstop. But hey, at least he’s known for his glove, right? Wrong. 

Wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong.

Volpe’s defense was just as messy. In the seventh, with two outs and a runner on second, he fielded a grounder—then air-mailed the throw wide to first. That mistake brought in the Cubs' fourth run. A little later, he jogged after a routine grounder and lobbed one to second base like it was a Sunday picnic. Dansby Swanson beat the throw, and Volpe just stared into the abyss.

But don’t worry, Aaron Boone had the usual word salad ready: “If the throw is on line, he’s out.”

Gee, thanks, dickhead. Maybe next time explain gravity while you're at it. Boone constantly defending Volpe like he’s a Little Leaguer learning the ropes isn’t just annoying—it’s insulting to fans who know better.

Meanwhile, the Yankees might already be turning the page.

While Volpe was busy booting plays in The Bronx, George Lombard Jr. was making noise at the Futures Game. The 18-year-old shortstop smoked a double, drew a walk, and looked smooth as silk in the field. Scouts took notice. MLB Pipeline now ranks Lombard as the No. 35 prospect in baseball, the No. 10 shortstop, and—wait for it—the top prospect in the Yankees system. He’s the only Yankee in MLB’s top 100.

Translation: He’s coming. And fast.

Oh, and if you thought Lombard was the only threat to Volpe’s reign, think again. With their first pick in the 2025 MLB Draft (39th overall), the Yankees selected Dax Kilby, a shortstop from Newnan High School in Georgia. Kilby is a left-handed hitter with excellent contact skills, patience at the plate, and—dare we say it—a real plan.

Ranked No. 62 by MLB.com and 75 by Baseball America, Kilby isn’t just some “project.” He’s another signpost pointing to a future that no longer includes Volpe as the guy. Here's the problem with Kilby and the Yankees analytics department though. The Yankees already tried the "drafting the SS out of High School" route with Volpe and it's a disaster. Why not let the guy spend a few years in the minor leagues rather than 2 minutes.  At any rate, it's clear the Yankees are thinking future and Volpe ain't in it.

And so where does that leave Anthony Volpe?

Right now, somewhere between everyday starter and the Yankees’ version of IKF—just a placeholder until the real talent arrives. That may sound harsh, but look at the writing on the wall. For the first time in a long time, the Yankees aren’t putting their head in the sand. 

They're preparing for the future. Lombard. Kilby. A shortstop shake-up is coming. Hell, is I had to pick, I'd grab a dude named Dean Ferrara from Fairfield. Newly graduated with college experience, unlike Volpe. He not only knows how to hit but can actually play defense and is the dark horse of this entire MLB Draft. 

Volpe was a rushed product. Great smile. Great story. Not ready.

And now the Yankees—finally—seem to realize it.

THE FORMER YANKEE WHOSE NAME REFUSED TO DIE

So, the Yankees are finally looking under the couch cushions for a real third baseman. Shocking, right? Because if you've been reading Bleeding Yankee Blue for more than five seconds, you already know this should've happened six months ago. You know—the offseason? That magical time when smart teams fill gaping holes before they're bleeding out in July?

But hey, credit where it’s due: at least they’re trying now. There’s a pulse. A flicker. And what name keeps popping up like a whack-a-mole? None other than Isiah Kiner-Falefa. Yep—that IKF. Jon Heyman of the New York Post says the Yankees are kicking the tires on a reunion, and you know what? I’m very okay with that.

I always kinda liked the guy. Sure, he wasn’t Derek Jeter 2.0, but the man hustled. Played wherever they told him. Took the media bullets like a pro. Now, is he the long-term answer at third base? Probably not. But would he be an upgrade over this Frankenstein’s Monster of a Yankees infield? Yeah, probably.

Let’s zoom in for a sec: Jazz Chisholm Jr.—who was supposed to be the new hotness at second base—has been playing third since June. So enter IKF. Again.

But before we get too sentimental, let’s remember the elephant in the stadium: Did he even like it here? And are Yankee fans emotionally mature enough for this reunion tour?

Remember, fans absolutely torched IKF during his shortstop tenure. Missed a play? Booed. Didn’t hit a bomb every game? Booed. Looked at someone funny? BOOED. It was brutal. Then again, fans are now turning on Anthony Volpe the same way, so at least there’s consistency. Bronx loyalists: loyal to the boo.

But here's the twist—maybe IKF walks back in like a seasoned vet, thicker skin, new swagger, and with the benefit of not being the guy stuck trying to replace Jeter. That alone could make this version of IKF better than the last.

Bottom line? The IKF rumor refuses to die, and maybe that’s for a reason. He’s cheap, he’s flexible, and honestly, he’d probably help this limp infield situation more than anyone currently suiting up in pinstripes. And if nothing else, it might force the front office to admit what we’ve been screaming since January: this roster had holes, and the duct tape isn’t holding anymore.

Keep your eyes on this one, folks. The reunion tour might just be coming to the Bronx.

THE VOLPE TEMPER TANTRUM THAT BLEW UP

 

Listen, we get it — it must be stressful being Anthony Volpe’s dad. Your kid is trying to play shortstop under the brightest lights in baseball, and the New York crowd is letting him hear it every time he boots another routine grounder or swings through a 92 MPH fastball like it’s invisible. That can’t be fun. But let’s pause the violins for a second... because Anthony Volpe shouldn’t even be in the major leagues.

Why? Simple: he’s not a major leaguer. He’s a Jersey kid, drafted out of high school with a great smile, probably had a few Yankee connections courtesy of Papa Volpe, skipped college ball entirely, and the Yankees — suckers for marketable babyfaces — rushed him through the minors like it was a Disney+ origin story. No seasoning, no patience, just vibes and some spreadsheet from Michael Fishman, who might currently be doing more damage to this franchise than Boone and Cashman combined (and that’s saying something).

Fast forward to 2025, and Volpe’s playing like he’s still taking finals at Delbarton. Every at-bat feels like a science experiment gone wrong. Every throw to first base is a coin flip. And every time someone says “he’s just a kid” — yeah, well, maybe he should be playing with the other kids… in Triple-A.

Back to Daddy Volpe. Over the weekend, video surfaced of him jawing at Mets fans — and not from some fancy suite either. Nope, he’s down in the regular seats, doing his best “Do you know who my son is?” routine. After a fan started chirping (as Mets fans do, especially when your kid is batting .187), Daddy Volpe snapped:

“Bad-mouthing my son? F*** you!”

He screamed it, repeated it, had to be held back. This is real footage, not a deleted scene from The Sopranos.  It's below.

Look — no one wants to see their kid criticized. But what did he expect? You're sitting in a baseball stadium, not your backyard wiffleball tournament. Volpe's been sold to us as "the future," but it’s becoming painfully clear the Yankees just shrink-wrapped a minor leaguer and slapped a premium price tag on him. And guess what? It worked. The family got paid. The Yankees got their PR moment. And the fans? We got stuck with another overhyped infielder hitting like Mario Mendoza on a bad day.

This is the Yankees' fault. 100%. They created this mess. Boone, Fishman, and Cashman decided that Volpe was The Guy before he earned it. And now that it’s backfiring? They’re still doubling down. It’s delusional.

Meanwhile, people like Neil Keefe (who nails this regularly) pointed out the absurdity of Boone saying Volpe can be a good player... and then saying he has been one already. Huh? Either he’s been good or he hasn’t. You don’t get to lie to our faces and misquote a dictionary. Boone used the word “ascension” like he’s doing Mad Libs with no clue what the words mean. Volpe isn’t ascending. He’s not even treading water. He’s sinking, fast — and taking this team with him.

At this point, even IKF is somewhere laughing.

And while we’re at it — let’s talk about Jomboy Media. They originally posted the video of Volpe Sr. going full WWE on Mets fans... and then poof, the video was gone. 

Why? Because Jomboy Media plays nice with the Yankees. But something must have happened.

Luckily Barstool grabbed it before it disappeared into the PR void.

Anthony Volpe’s dad was getting into it with some Mets fans

pic.twitter.com/gD2n1JNJZ9

— Barstool New York (@BarstoolNYC) July 7, 2025

This whole situation is pathetic. The Yankees tried to script a fairy tale with Volpe. A local kid makes good. But what we got instead is a classic cautionary tale of what happens when hype trumps development.

The Volpe Experiment is over. Send him down, let him breathe, and tell his father to stop yelling “f*** you” in a stadium filled with kids who already heard worse from Boone’s bullpen decisions.

And Mr. Volpe? Apologize. 

Your son’s struggles aren’t the fans’ fault. They’re yours — for buying into the myth and expecting the rest of us to cheer for mediocrity.

The Yankees need to own this mess. The fans are done waiting for “ascension.” We want results — not excuses. And certainly not tantrums from row 12.

The narrative is tired. The act is stale. And it’s time we all admit what we’re watching.

This isn’t baseball’s next superstar. This is a misfire. And by the way, that's OK, but he's got to be removed!

I'D LOVE IKF BACK! BUT WOULD HE WANT TO COME BACK?

My guy Isiah Kiner-Falefa — the ultimate utility player. The duct tape of a baseball roster. Currently manning shortstop duties for the Pirates, IKF is once again floating into the trade rumor mill, and wouldn’t you know it? The Yankees are lurking like an old flame scrolling through your Instagram stories. I kid, I kid... you don't have an ex-girlfriend.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, both the Giants and the Yankees are “keeping a close eye” on the 30-year-old infielder as we approach the MLB trade deadline. Why? Well, his contract is expiring, he’s affordable, and frankly, he’s exactly the kind of guy a team wants on its roster — versatile, low-maintenance, and not allergic to hard work.

Now, look. I’ll admit something here that I know not every Yankee fan will agree with: I liked IKF. There, I said it. When he was with the Yankees, he was a gamer. Played wherever they told him, kept his mouth shut, hustled his tail off, and smiled through what amounted to a thankless role. You needed a shortstop? IKF. Someone to fill in at third? IKF. A little outfield sprinkle? Yep, IKF. You needed someone to sit quietly while the organization drooled over Anthony Volpe like he was Jeter 2.0? IKF did that too.

But here’s the real kicker — he was set up to fail at shortstop. The Yankees sold us this dream that he’d lock it down like a young Andrelton Simmons. Instead, when mistakes happened (as they tend to in baseball), he became the scapegoat. It was Gleyber Torres 2.0: yank a guy out of his natural position, watch the errors pile up, then blame him for being human. Meanwhile, Volpe and Wells? Teflon. Mistake? “He’s learning.” Slump? “He’s maturing.” Strikeout with the bases loaded? “The analytics like his swing path.”

IKF didn’t get that kind of grace. He got the cold shoulder, the hot seat, and eventually, the exit.

And now the Yankees might want him back? I don’t know, man. If I’m IKF, I might just tell them to go kick rocks. Or better yet — send them a nice thank-you card with no return address.

Still, the rumors are swirling, and IKF could plug several holes for the Bombers. He’s hitting a not-so-sexy .216  and he’s proven he can handle pretty much any position not called “pitcher.”

The Yankees are doing a lot of things right this year. They’re winning games, their rotation’s been surprisingly durable, and Aaron Judge is once again reminding everyone he is, in fact, a baseball god. But they could use a guy like IKF — someone who can cover a lot of ground and doesn’t need a five-game hitting streak to keep his name on the lineup card.

So here we are. Could a reunion happen? Sure. Should it? Maybe. But if it does, let’s just hope this time around the Yankees give him the respect he deserves — and maybe don’t throw him to the wolves just because the golden boy is “still developing.”

IKF doesn’t need the Yankees. But the Yankees might just need him. Stay tuned.

YANKEE INFIELD TRADE RUMORS JUST GOT WEIRD

It’s official—trade rumor season is upon us, and Andy Martino is tossing names around like he’s playing darts after three beers. Honestly, this guy’s hobby might be chaos. Damn you, Martino!

This time, he’s cooked up a juicy little speculation stew involving the Yankees’ infield needs—and two names have emerged: one that might make fans shrug, and another that could cause a full-on Bronx meltdown.

Let’s start with the name that probably made you spit out your coffee: Isiah Kiner-Falefa. Yes, that IKF. The utility man who once played every position not named “team therapist” in pinstripes. Martino says the Yankees “continue to look for a righty bat, likely an infielder,” and—brace yourself—“Isiah Kiner-Falefa could fit the bill.”

Now look, I had no beef with IKF. In fact, the guy was a total trooper when he was in New York. He showed up, suited up, played wherever he was told, and somehow still became the punching bag for a franchise that was gearing up for Volpe-mania. The Yankees never really gave him a fair shake—they slapped a rental sticker on him the second he walked into the clubhouse and basically fed him to the wolves. It was like, “Thanks for the versatility, now go sit in the corner while we worship Volpe’s entrance.” It was all BS and I felt terribly for IKF. It was a good dude.

And now Martino wants to throw him back into the fire? Honestly, if I’m IKF, I’d rather take up gardening.

But wait—Martino wasn’t done. He tossed in another name: Ryan McMahon. Yes, the Colorado Rockies infielder who's currently batting a brisk .225 with 11 homers and 24 RBIs. Martino’s logic? Maybe he could shift Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to second base and unlock some mythical hidden potential.

Let’s be real: we already have enough struggling hitters. Austin Wells is batting .218 and is terrible. Volpe is at .231 and every time I turn on the game, he's striking out. If we add McMahon to the mix, we’re basically collecting light-hitting players like they’re Pokémon cards. That’s not strategy—it’s sabotage.

And while it’s true we even talked about McMahon as a potential fit—back in January—that was before his bat decided to take a sabbatical. Now? Not so much.

Look, I respect Andy Martino’s hustle. He’s got a job to do, and sometimes that means tossing out wild trade scenarios like darts in the dark. But these particular ideas? They're missing the board completely. The Yankees need reinforcements that actually upgrade the roster, not take us back to the days of “he’s versatile but can’t hit.”

Deadline season is just warming up, and better ideas will come. For now, though? Martino’s wish list feels more like a prank than a plan.

JUAN SOTO IS MISERABLE, YA'LL!

There’s a storm cloud over Citi Field, and no, it’s not leftover smoke from the last dumpster fire that rolled through Flushing. This one’s got a name. A face. A payroll-devouring contract.

Juan Soto. The glummest $765 million man in baseball history.

The so-called generational star is trudging through his first season with the Mets like a guy who just realized his dream house was built on a toxic waste site. The spark? Gone. The bat speed? Dropping. The smile? Apparently left in the Bronx last October, and good riddance.

Michael Kay recently dropped a quiet nuke on Mets fans: “Very, very glum,” he said about Soto’s demeanor. “No hop in his step. Doesn’t smile much… I’m not gonna say he is unhappy. Because how can you be unhappy with a $765 million contract?”

How? Simple. You sign with the Mets.

Now here’s the kicker — according to Kay, Soto actually wanted to stay in the Bronx. The Yankees didn’t botch negotiations. No, his family steered him to the Mets because they were “comfortable” with Steve Cohen.  That’s not just a bad decision. That’s a generational mistake.

And you know what? Good. Let him be glum. Let him drag his feet. Let him smile once every lunar eclipse and turn every strikeout into a therapy session. He’s not our problem anymore — he’s theirs. The Yankees let him walk, and they were right to do it.

Because here’s the reality: Juan Soto is playing like a man who peaked at 25. His slash line? .247/.379/.437 — numbers that would barely get Isiah Kiner-Falefa a contract in Japan. His OPS+ is the lowest it’s been since he was legally old enough to buy a scratch-off. And his bat speed? It’s dropped 2 miles per hour. That’s not a slump — that’s erosion.

He’s already been bumped from the No. 2 spot in the order — a “spark” move, they called it. What’s next, batting seventh behind Pete Alonso and the ghost of Daniel Vogelbach? The only spark happening in that lineup is the fuse on Steve Cohen’s ulcer.

And look — we’re not going to pretend we feel sorry for Mets fans. You chased him. You cheered when he signed. You mocked the Yankees for letting him go. And now?

Now you’re stuck with 15 years of slow groundouts, dead eyes, and mopey press conferences from a guy who looks like he’s regretting every second of it. 

And Mets fans — you deserve this. You went all-in on a star who didn’t want to be there, who clearly isn’t built to lead, and who already looks like he’s counting the days to his first "minor back tightness" IL stint.

Meanwhile, the Yankees are laughing all the way to October. With Max Fried anchoring the rotation, a clubhouse that actually enjoys showing up to work, and zero albatross contracts dragging them down, Bronx fans are sleeping just fine at night. No regrets. No second thoughts. No, “What if we had just matched the Mets' offer?”

You can keep him.

And Juan? You should be ashamed. You were supposed to be the next great star. Instead, you're baseball’s most expensive sulk. You let other people steer your career into baseball purgatory. You chased a $765 million “comfort deal” and now you’re stuck in the most uncomfortable situation in pro sports: being a Met with expectations.

So go ahead. Keep frowning. Keep pressing. Keep waving at sliders like they insulted your family. Because this is the choice you made. You’re the face of a franchise that turns gold into sawdust.

And for Yankee fans watching from a safe, Soto-free distance?

We’re just sitting back, smiling, and saying:

Thank God he’s not in pinstripes.

VOLPE'S ONLY THERE BECAUSE THE YANKEES PUT HIM THERE

I've never liked the way the Yankees have treated Oswald Peraza. There, I said it. And honestly, my frustration goes back to the shortstop competition in 2022.

The Yankees had already decided that Anthony Volpe was their guy. He was their first-round draft pick, the golden prospect, the one they wanted to build around. But plenty of people—myself included—believed Peraza was the better choice. He spent most of 2022 tearing it up in Triple-A, earning a September call-up, where he immediately made an impact. In 18 games, he hit .306 and showed he belonged. When the Yankees finally lost faith in Isiah Kiner-Falefa during the playoffs, Peraza even started Game 2 of the ALCS in Houston. That should have been his moment, the beginning of his time as the Yankees’ everyday shortstop.

But by the time spring training rolled around in 2023, the Yankees were fully committed to Volpe. They marketed him as the future, pushed his name at every turn, and did everything possible to make him the Opening Day shortstop—even though he had no big-league experience and had only played 22 games in Triple-A. Making that kind of jump is a huge leap, even for the most talented players. Meanwhile, Peraza had more experience, more polish, and more reason to be considered. Yet, the Yankees never truly gave him a shot.

Peraza later told NJ Advance Media, "In my mind, I was the best shortstop we had."

That wasn’t just confidence—it was reality. And yet, Volpe had the better spring at the plate, batting .309 across 19 games. Peraza, meanwhile, struggled offensively, hitting just .190. That was all the Yankees needed to see. Volpe won the job, and Peraza was sent down.

These days Peraza finds himself in a tough spot. He’s out of minor league options, meaning he either makes the Yankees’ major league roster or gets placed on waivers, where any other team could claim him.

“It’s a little different [with] no options,” Peraza said. “Working hard every day. I’m waiting for the news. My goal is to make the team. I love New York. I want to play for New York.”

And yet, I have to wonder—will the Yankees actually give him a fair chance? Or have they already made up their minds? Because if there’s one thing we’ve seen time and time again, it’s that the Yankees don’t always think long-term. They’re reactive, not proactive. Just look at their current situation. Gerrit Cole is undergoing surgery, and now they’re scrambling to figure out how to replace him. They weren’t prepared. They didn’t have a plan. And when it comes to roster decisions, that short-sighted approach keeps showing up.

Take Volpe this spring. So far, his stats don’t exactly scream “ready for another leap.” Through Wednesday, he was just 5-for-28 with 10 strikeouts. But don’t worry—Aaron Boone, the guy with zero championships, still insists: “I feel like he’s ready to make another jump offensively. I really feel like that’s coming.” Right... Right, and it's right in front of us also, right Boone?

This is exactly the problem. The Yankees don’t always let competition play out naturally. They pick their favorites and run with them. It’s predetermined. Volpe was always going to get the job, and Peraza? He’s just been stuck in limbo, spinning his wheels, trying to earn a role that the Yankees likely never intended to give him.

It reminds me of those travel baseball teams in small towns, where the roster is already decided based on local politics and friendships rather than actual talent. Volpe isn’t necessarily a better player than Peraza—but his story is. And that’s what the Yankees care about. Volpe has the fresh-faced, marketable appeal. Peraza? He doesn’t fit their narrative as neatly.

But if we’re talking strictly about on-field performance, Peraza has handled the strike zone well this spring. He’s walked four times, struck out five times in 28 plate appearances, and picked up five singles and a double for a .649 OPS. Not elite numbers, but neither he nor Oswaldo Cabrera (.726 OPS) has completely run away with a roster spot.

Opening day is coming up, Peraza still has a chance to prove himself. And I hope the Yankees finally open their eyes and give him a real shot. He deserves to be on this team, whether at third base, second base, or in a utility role. He belongs in the majors. It’s that simple.

PERAZA NEEDS TO FOLLOW HIS DREAM AND STAY ON COURSE

What will end up happening to Oswald Peraza. A few weeks ago, I wrote about him and my theory that the Yankees will look to one day trade this guy. He's solid, but for some reason in my opinion, they don't love him. But there is probably a team out there who needs him for sure. And with Stroman still being floated out there and the Yankees not too into him either, it may make sense to package them for something that they need. 

Two spring trainings ago Aaron "No Championships" Boone stood in front of the media and swore up and down that the shortstop position was up for grabs. Wide open competition, folks! Best man wins! Of course, that was just the script handed down from the Yankees’ front office, and Boone, being the good company man, said his lines. But let’s be real—everyone and their grandma knew Anthony Volpe was the chosen one.

Meanwhile, Oswald Peraza was out there grinding, hustling, doing everything he could to earn a spot. The Yankees kept saying they loved Peraza, but actions speak louder than words. And let’s be honest, their actions screamed, "Meh." My opinion of course.

Peraza crushed it in Triple-A in 2022, got a September call-up, and hit .306 in 18 games. He even started Game 2 of the ALCS when the Yankees finally admitted they were sick of IKF. You’d think that would count for something, right? Nope. Because by the spring of ‘23, the Yankees were fully invested in the Volpe Hype Train.

Volpe, the kid from New Jersey, the 2019 first-round pick, the one with the conveniently timed photo of him and Derek Jeter as a kid floating around Yankee Universe. The marketing was impeccable, just like when the Yankees brought in Boone as manager and replayed his 2003 ALCS homer on an endless loop—never mind the fact that they didn’t even win the World Series that year.

So, while Volpe was handed the keys to the kingdom, Peraza was left fighting for scraps. And let’s be clear—this isn’t a dig at Volpe. He’s a good player. But the Yankees gave him all the time and patience in the world, while Peraza? Not so much.

Peraza knows what’s up. He’s out of minor league options, and he’s feeling the urgency. “This year is really, really important for my career,” he said. He wants to stay with the Yankees, even if it means riding the bench. "I love the Yankees. This is my dream.”

But dreams don’t always pay the rent, and the Yankees are locked in on Volpe. Peraza is willing to play second or third, but in his heart, he’s a shortstop. And the dude can field—he proved that in the minors.

Will the Yankees finally give Peraza a real shot, or will they ship him off to another team and watch him thrive elsewhere? No one knows yet, but one thing’s for sure—this kid deserves better than being an afterthought. 

Here’s hoping he gets a chance to shine, preferably in pinstripes.

ANTHONY VOLPE VS. HA-SEONG KIM

The New York Yankees may have missed a significant opportunity by not signing Ha-Seong Kim, and as Sports Illustrated recently highlighted, that decision could come back to haunt them. Great article by the way, check it out HERE.

In their article, SI notes, "Kim is an elite defender no matter where he's placed on the diamond, though his defense is so strong that his borderline elite bat gets overshadowed." For those who have followed the Yankees closely, this isn’t exactly surprising. Many fans and analysts, including me at BYB, have long believed that Kim would have been a perfect fit for the Yankees’ infield this offseason. He brings speed, defensive versatility, and a solid bat—attributes the team has needed for years.

The Yankees' faith in Anthony Volpe played a big role in their decision not to pursue Kim in my opinion. We wrote about Volpe last November in a piece titled: WE GOT FLASHES FROM VOLPE, BUT WE NEED MORE. Volpe showed flashes of brilliance early in the 2024 season, hitting .382 through the first 15 games and displaying the star potential that the organization had been selling. However, that hot start quickly faded as opposing pitchers adjusted, and Volpe struggled to make the necessary counter-adjustments. I wrote, "Look, those first 15 games of 2024 were magical. He hit .382, sprayed extra-base hits all over the field, and looked like the dynamic star we’d been promised. But that shine wore off faster than a Times Square souvenir." While he had some key moments in the postseason, including a memorable grand slam in the World Series, sporadic success isn’t enough in the Bronx. The Yankees need consistent production, not just glimpses of greatness.

Defensively, Volpe is serviceable but not spectacular. I've always said this. His glove is reliable, and his arm strength has improved, but he hasn’t established himself as an elite shortstop. If shortstop is supposed to be his defining position, he needs to elevate his game further. BYB emphasized this point, stating, "Defensively, Volpe is… fine. Not great, not bad, just fine. He’s a little better than average with his glove and his arm strength has improved enough to keep people from cringing."

That’s where Kim comes in. While he primarily played shortstop early in his career, his 2023 Gold Glove came from the utility position, proving his ability to thrive across the infield. He excels at second and third base as well, giving any team incredible flexibility. SI points out, "He isn't going to blow you away with power by any means, yet Kim has enough pop to be a 15+ home run hitter on a yearly basis." His defensive prowess is so strong that it sometimes overshadows his offensive contributions but make no mistake—Kim can hit.

The Yankees’ decision not to sign Kim could be a mistake, particularly if Volpe fails to take a big step forward in 2025. While the organization is betting on Volpe, it’s worth considering whether a player like Kim—who brings both defensive reliability and offensive consistency—would have been the safer and ultimately better choice. The Yankees once had a similar situation with Isiah Kiner-Falefa, moving him around the field before eventually moving on. Could Volpe face a similar fate if he doesn’t progress as expected? All I'm saying is the Yankees promoted this kid as the next big thing... but when will that happen?

Ultimately, only time will tell if the Yankees made the right call. Volpe has another season to prove he can be the star they envisioned, but if he struggles, fans and analysts alike will be left wondering: Did the Yankees let a better option slip away in Ha-Seong Kim? OK, OK... I'll be the one wondering... everybody calm down.

LATEST RUMOR: YANKEES INTERESTED IN REUNION WITH FORMER THIRD BASEMAN

I want a starting pitcher. The Yankees NEED a starting pitcher, but you won't find that good news on your social media feed right now. Instead, I found something else. It's not my first choice but it did bring back some nostalgic feelings.

In addition to solid pitching, we need some hitters because Juan Soto alone isn't going to cut it. The Yankees are interested in a reunion with Gio Urshela, find the details HERE. He may not be that bright shiny stud we have been hoping for all winter BUT the guy can hit and was consistent when he was with us. 

Hindsight is 20-20, but now that Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Josh Donaldson are gone it's another example of how dumb Brian Cashman is. Donaldson was never a good move and most of us hated it as soon as the trade happened. Nothing against IKF, he did everything we asked of him but getting rid of Urshela made the Yankees weaker.

In two seasons since Urshela was traded he batted .290 with 54 extra-base hits, including 15 home runs, 88 RBI and four stolen bases. This is the kind of production the Yankees desperately need. He may not be a shiny superstar, but we don't need a lineup of superstars, just guys that can hit. We have a bunch of guys that don't hit or score runs. 

If Urshela is healthy again, he could be a nice addition to the lineup. His 2023 season ended prematurely in June after he fell awkwardly at first base and suffered a fractured pelvis.  Thankfully, he didn't need surgery. As good as Soto is, he doesn't save the anemic offense. Urshela's bat is valuable, but he's also a good fielder and a good clubhouse guy, and you can never have enough of those. He gives more versatility to the Yankees. We know DJ LeMahieu is likely to miss time at third and who knows if Anthony Rizzo can bounce back and stay healthy. It's a good depth move, and we always need that.

If the Yankees have no other big moves in their back pocket, this could be a good move for the Yankees. I still want a big splash, but I don't think the Yankees will do it. This does help improve the team and we know what Urshela can do. Of course, there are other teams interested, the Mets, Angels and Marlins but it is believed the Angels and Marlins have made better offers.

Hopefully Urshela wants to come back home. It wouldn't be the move I dreamed of, but we've always loved Urshela.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj 

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT LOSING IKF?

Source: NJ.com

The Yankee super utility guy is off to Toronto. Honestly, that one stung a little. Isiah Kiner-Falefa reinvented himself more times than he likely would have wanted. But he always seemed to land on his feet. And the Yankees needed him to play just about every position- even backup catcher if the team asked him to put on the mask. Now in 2024, he will be playing against the Yankees in the battle for the AL East. So I ask you this question, "How do you feel about losing IKF?"

Source: NY Daily News

"In an otherwise dreary Yankees season, Kiner-Falefa hit more than most and made himself appealing to plenty of teams that could use defensive flexibility," reported The New York Post following the Blue Jays acquisition of the golden utility player.

Surely, IKF was no Didi Gregorius nor could he hit like Derek Jeter as a middle infielder, but what he did do is bunt, hustle, hit with runners in scoring position and play all the outfield and infield positions except first base and catcher (although he could have). He is a gem in the clubhouse, never with a sour face only smiling and encouraging others to play their best.

Source: X.com

Now the 28-year-old infielder/outfielder will earn his salary up north, signing a two-year, $15 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays. IKF likely will hurt the Yankees as a scrappy addition to the already pesty Jays. But with the Yankees retooling, they plan to come out swinging, with Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo taking over key corner outfield positions. 

The Yankees are not done yet as many are expecting Brian Cashman to add a pitcher to the roster and perhaps even another bat to the bench. The competition is fierce in the AL East as well as across the league with the Dodgers expected to dominate early and likely be a force in the postseason. 

But for now, I say thank you to IKF for all he did to keep us in the game, despite the injuries and in spite of moving around the field to contribute. Good luck in Toronto but don't hurt the Bombers too much. 

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Senior Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof

WILL THE DOMINOES FALL THE YANKEES WAY?

Source: AP

Mathematically, the Yankees still have a chance of making the playoffs. Very slight chance, but there is a chance. I feel obligated to watch the Yankees even though they are the same old, same old team—win some games, lose just as many. I guess I just want them to wake up and go on a tear. So the big question is, "will the dominoes fall the Yankees way?"

"According to baseball-reference.com, the Yankees had a 0.1 percent chance of making the playoffs Monday morning. ESPN liked their chances three times as much: 0.3 percent. And FanGraphs — in a clearly shameless play for more Yankee-fan subscribers — had them all the way up at 0.4 percent," wrote The New York Post before Tuesday night's loss against Toronto. 

And in grand Yankee fashion, they face an AL East rival at home and lose. They can't manufacture runs. And honestly if I could have three Isiah Kiner-Falefas on this team, I would take them. IKF works hard, plays every position and never gives up. But even his efforts are dimming as the Yankee's season slips away.

"The math is what the math is. They’re still going to play games for 13 more days. So here is a look at what the Yankees almost certainly have to do with the 12 games they have left:

1. Go 5-1 against the Jays.

2. Take two of three from the Diamondbacks, in town this weekend.

3. Sweep the Royals, who still have a good chance to lose 110 games.

That’s 10-2. That’s hard. But that’s the kind of streak the Yankees need now, minimum," reported The Post.

The Yankees have had their bout of bad luck this season, hard knocks if you will. Unfortunate injuries, long stints to the IL, quiet bats, pitching woes, and mismanagement of players pretty much sum up 2023. And Tuesday's 9th inning just shows you that the Yankees are incapable of helping themselves. So, no the dominoes won't fall the Yankees way. They simply don't have even pieces to level up and beat the odds.

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Senior Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof