Once again, the New York Yankees have been sent packing. The team with the most championships among the “Big Four” pro sports could not overcome the Toronto Blue Jays, who now advance to the ALCS for the first time in nine years.
Aaron Judge, who has carried a well-documented postseason stigma for leaving the Yankees hanging in previous playoff runs, finally came through for his team. Unfortunately, the rest of the Yankees struggled. New York’s offense was stifled by the Blue Jays’ pitching, while their own pitching staff couldn’t contain Toronto’s hitters, leaving the Yankees outscored by 18 runs over the four-game series—a stark result for a franchise of this caliber.
Attention now turns to Aaron Boone and his future as Yankees manager. Boone has never had a losing season, has led the team to the playoffs every year but one, and boasts three ALCS appearances and one pennant—but no World Series title. While some fans are calling for a change, the decision ultimately rests with Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner and GM Brian Cashman as they consider the direction of the team heading into the offseason.