“Everyone’s going to have their opinions” - Aaron Boone fires back at Dodgers pitcher Joe Kelly who criticized Yankees
It will be a long offseason for Aaron Boone and the New York Yankees. After enjoying a dominant postseason run, the team collapsed disastrously in the World Series, specifically Game 5. After taking a commanding 5–0 lead, the Yankees roster suffered mental lapse after mental lapse, allowing the Los Angeles Dodgers to not only tie the game but also take the lead and eventual title.
Thanks to errors and mental gaffs from Aaron Judge, Anthony Rizzo, and Anthony Volpe, the Yankees squandered their momentum, and ultimately the World Series. Following the painful loss, Aaron Boone and the Yankees roster drew criticism from Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Joe Kelly.
Kelly aimed the entire New York Yankees squad, giving one of the most scathing reviews of the club's postseason run. The veteran, who did not make a single playoff appearance due to injury, called out the team's defensive abilities and daily effort.
This sparked outrage among Yankees fans and Boone who brushed on the topic in an interview with SNY. The veteran manager spoke about Kelly's criticism and although he was disappointed in their entire situation, he remained cool-headed.
"A little bit but the bottom line is we didn't play as well as we could have, especially had a tough inning in Game 5. So that's the ultimate disappointment," Boone said about whether or not he was bothered by Kelly's harsh statement.
The Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher was critical of the New York Yankees defense. He went as far as to say that the club would be ranked as one of the worst in the postseason. Boone brushed off Kelly's words as best he could.
"I try never to get too caught up in what other people are saying or doing, especially when it comes from certain places. Everyone's going to have their opinions and be entitled to things," Boone said.
Aaron Boone had his club option picked up for the 2025 campaign
Despite Boone remaining a polarizing figure among fans, the New York Yankees have decided to pick up his option for the 2025 season. Even though the Bronx Bombers had a devastating collapse in Game 5, the team was still able to reach the World Series for the first time since 2009, which warrants keeping Boone on board.
All that said, Boone's future with the organization may hinge fully on next season. Boone said no contract extension discussions have happened between him and the Yankees organization. Boone has a 603-429 regular season record throughout his seven seasons as the Yankees manager.