The New York Yankees entered September with World Series dreams, but a brutal 12-2 beatdown by Detroit exposed every crack in their foundation. With an 8-12 record against teams over .500 this season, the Yankees look more vulnerable than their 89 wins suggest. The Toronto Blue Jays smell blood in the water—they’ve taken the AL East lead and their broadcasters aren’t afraid to twist the knife. One former Yankee player heard enough and decided to fire back with both barrels.

Blue Jays announcer Buck Martinez ripped the Yankees during Tuesday night’s broadcast of Toronto’s 4-3 win over Houston. Martinez watched Detroit crush the Yankees 12-2 and didn’t hold back his thoughts about New York’s problems. “You know, the Yankees, they’re not a good team,” he said bluntly. “I don’t care what their record is. They have a lot of wild pitches, they make a lot of mistakes in the field, and they don’t run the bases very well. If they don’t hit home runs, they don’t have a chance to win.”

Former Yankees catcher Erik Kratz had heard enough of Martinez’s criticism. However, rather than defending New York, Kratz broadened the scope, arguing that if the Yankees are struggling, it’s a reflection on the entire American League. “It’s more of an indictment on the American League,” Kratz retorted. “You can say that there’s probably four teams better than every American League club in the National League, so maybe the American League just isn’t that good.” Kratz understands how the postseason changes everything: teams can hide certain glaring issues when their ace goes deep into games or with managers using every trick in the book through short series.

What the math tells us is surprising: despite all their flaws, the Yankees remain just three games behind the Blue Jays and still control the first wild card spot with 18 games left to play. Aaron Boone remains resolute, refusing to panic over the team’s chances. “We have the guys down there to get it done,” Boone said confidently, referring to his bullpen after Tuesday’s tough loss. “We just gotta sync it up. (Tuesday) was a rough night, but it doesn’t erase the many good things we’ve done in the games we have closed out.” The division race, as intense as ever, continues to be a battlefield.

With critics and supporters alike voicing their opinions, Boone focuses solely on what he can control on the field. His recent roster decisions reflect the urgency within the team. It’s clear every game counts from here on out, and Boone is prepared to make the tough calls necessary to keep the Yankees’ postseason hopes alive.

Boone Makes Hard Lineup Choices During Playoff Push

While the New York Yankees continue to struggle through criticism and maintain a playoff spot, Boone makes challenging roster decisions on just how serious this matter has turned into. This latest move sends a loud-and-clear signal of accountability when it matters most.

Volpe was benched on Wednesday night against Detroit, an absolutely shocking decision with the young shortstop who, earlier this season, seemed set to hold down a job. The 22-year-old had slipped into a terrible slump, going 2-for-21 with 11 strikeouts in his recent games; an awful Tuesday only confirmed the decision—he went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and botched a sacrifice bunt when the team really needed runs.

Boone was truthful when reporters inquired about his decision. “Look, Anthony [Volpe], I view as our shortstop. But Caballero is a really good player. I’m aware of that, and I also feel a lot of confidence anytime I put him in there.” He stressed that each day, he goes out on a limb to evaluate the position: “Obviously, he’s gotten some more opportunities here of late where I have sat Anthony. We’re at a time of the year where we’re playing for a lot right now.”

José Caballero started at shortstop and batted eighth, while Aaron Judge was the designated hitter and Cody Bellinger covered left field. The Yankees gave Carlos Rodon the ball against Detroit’s Jack Flaherty in what was a must-win game. Volpe, having started 137 games this season, has gone from near automatic starter to a daily question mark, pressuring him to find his swing quickly for when he next steps up to the plate.

Despite facing mounting criticism and challenges, the Yankees remain firmly in contention, with every game becoming critical in their quest for the postseason. Boone’s resolve and tough lineup decisions reflect a team determined to rise and reclaim its championship aspirations.