Yankees fans have experienced quite the emotional ride this summer. The team has gone 18-28 in its last 46 games, with a 5-18 road record since June 13, the worst in Major League Baseball.
In Friday’s game against the Miami Marlins, three newly added bullpen pitchers made their debut, and all struggled, allowing nine earned runs over 2.1 innings. On Monday night in Texas against the Rangers, Devin Williams blew a save, and new reliever Jake Bird gave up a walk-off three-run homer to Josh Jung.
It seems like rock bottom.
However, there are many reasons for Yankees fans to be hopeful for a turnaround.
Aaron Judge’s return is a key factor. The MVP contender had been out with a right flexor strain but participated in batting practice on Monday and is expected to return against the Rangers. When Judge is healthy, he transforms the lineup, and his return is perfectly timed. Despite the struggles, the Yankees remain within reach of both the AL East and the top seed in the American League.
Additionally, the bullpen is expected to improve. Although the initial performance of Bird, David Bednar, and Camilo Doval was poor, it’s difficult to imagine it getting worse than Friday’s game. These pitchers are experienced and haven’t forgotten their skills overnight.
Have they hit rock bottom? Likely. But relief pitching tends to stabilize, and now the Yankees have more high-pressure options than before.
One bright spot recently has been Anthony Volpe’s performance. Since the All-Star break, the shortstop has posted a .263/.295/.684 line with a .979 OPS, seven home runs, and a .403 wOBA over 16 games.
A genuine improvement backs this power surge. Volpe’s swing speed has increased by 1.0 mph, he’s pulling the ball more (46.5%), elevating it more (51.2% fly balls), and making better contact in the zone. This development could significantly impact the lineup’s potential if it continues.
The Yankees hope this success will boost the 24-year-old shortstop’s confidence, impacting his fielding as he aims to return to Gold Glove form.
The Yankees’ recent slump obscures their overall offensive performance. They still lead MLB in wRC+, wOBA, slugging, home runs, walk rate, and runs scored. Despite inconsistencies, they statistically have the best offense in baseball and it should only improve.
The upcoming schedule is also more favorable. The Yankees will play six games against the Twins, seven against the Orioles, three against the Nationals, and seven against the White Sox. Their last 13 games in September are against Minnesota, Baltimore, and Chicago, offering opportunities to ascend the standings and build momentum going into October.
Though things seem grim, Judge is returning, Volpe is excelling, and the bullpen is unlikely to worsen. The offense remains strong on paper, and the schedule is easing at the right moment.
There is still time for a late-season comeback. Yankees fans have every reason to anticipate it.
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