New York Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone was calm and composed even though the Bombers lost a weekend series to the Baltimore Orioles, by far the worst team in the majors. While fans often criticize his perceived passivity, that’s often a good quality to have when leading the most influential organization in baseball.
He did, however, note that the Yankees need Andrew Heaney to be a lot better than he has shown so far. His latest meltdown resulted in Sunday’s loss, and he was showered with boos from the relentless crowd in Yankee Stadium.
Boone was asked by the media whether he believed Heaney, who got just one out and allowed four runs on 30 pitches on Sunday, could turn his season around.
“He’s going to have to,†Boone said, per NJ Advance Media.
The Yankees have other potential options
With a hit by pitch and consecutive singles, the Yankees’ left-hander, acquired at the deadline from the Los Angeles Angels, loaded the bases in the seventh. Then he allowed a double to Jahmai Jones that scored a couple of runs, and another run-scoring single to Jorge Mateo.
“I thought today coming out of the pen his stuff probably played up a little bit,†Boone said of Heaney, who has conceded 24 runs in 28 1/3 innings over seven games with the Yankees.
“He was the victim of some soft contact,†Boone said. “But in the end, just couldn’t get out of the inning. It’s an important role down there and he’s going to have to share some of that role. He’s going to have to step up. He wants the ball. He’s going to have to take advantage of another opportunity when he gets it.â€
With Luis Gil in the minors, just about ready to contribute, and Clarke Schmidt showing he is healthy over Triple-A, Heaney may not get many more opportunities to show his worth. He is going to need to perform soon.