Are the Yankees in Trouble? After Five Straight Losses | Pinstripe Post
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The Pinstripe Post podcast examines the New York Yankees' recent five-game losing streak, sparked by a sweep from the Tampa Bay Rays and a split with the Oakland A's. Joel Sherman and Ryan Sampson analyze the underlying issues, emphasizing that while the Yankees' early struggles are concerning, they are part of a long, unpredictable season. Sherman highlights two primary concerns: the bullpen's fragility, particularly with David Bednar and Brett Hedrick being overused, and the team's poor performance in a faster-paced game, especially defensively against the Rays. He also scrutinizes key players, including Jazz Chisholm’s uncharacteristic defensive lapse and lack of offensive production, and Ryan McMahon’s subpar start at the plate, questioning whether the Yankees’ long-term investment in him is justified. Despite the turmoil, Sherman remains optimistic, noting the Yankees’ strong run differential and historical ability to overcome early slumps. He also reflects on the broader context of the American League, where several top teams are struggling, and discusses the looming challenge of the upcoming series against the Angels, featuring Mike Trout, whose career trajectory and lack of postseason success are examined with both admiration and regret.
The Yankees' five-game losing streak is concerning but not indicative of long-term failure; early-season slumps are normal in a 162-game season.
The bullpen, especially David Bednar and Brett Hedrick, is under significant strain and may not be sustainable over the long term.
The Yankees struggled with the faster pace of the game in Tampa Bay, exposing defensive lapses and timing issues.
Jazz Chisholm’s defensive error and post-game comments raise questions about his readiness for high-pressure moments, particularly in cold-weather October games.
Ryan McMahon’s poor offensive start (4-for-35, OPS in the 300s) is a major concern, though Sherman believes he has the defensive upside to justify a long-term role.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The Yankees' Five-Game Losing Streak: Cause for Panic?
“I'm old enough to remember when New York baseball was thriving. That was last Tuesday.”
Bullpen Strain and Defensive Vulnerability
Sherman identifies the bullpen and defensive performance in fast-paced games as the two biggest concerns. He expresses worry over David Bednar’s early usage and lack of fastball trust, and criticizes the Yankees’ inability to handle the Rays’ aggressive, quick style of play.
Jazz Chisholm: Talent vs. Clutch Performance
“When you're playing for everything, is he a guy you want?”
Lineup Concerns: McMahon, Gritchick, and the Depth Question
The discussion turns to Ryan McMahon’s poor offensive start and the Yankees’ reliance on him as a ninth hitter. Sherman also evaluates Paul Goldschmidt’s absence and the potential for Jason Dominguez to emerge as a solution, especially if injuries occur.
Luis Hill’s Debut and the Velocity Concern
Sherman analyzes Luis Hill’s lackluster first start, noting a drop in fastball velocity and poor command. He raises concerns about whether Hill can maintain effectiveness if he continues to lose velocity, especially given the high-stakes nature of the Yankees’ rotation.
“It's like Daniel Day-Lewis playing dinner theater in Iowa.”
“When you're good, you lose close games. You don't lose big.”
“When you're playing for everything, is he a guy you want?”
Hosts
Joel Sherman
person
New York Yankees
other
Ryan Sampson
person
Jazz Chisholm
person
Mike Trout
person
Tampa Bay Rays
other
Ryan McMahon
person
Oakland A's
other
Luis Hill
person
New York Mets
other
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