Will Cody Bellinger Be Benched? Aaron Boone's Tough Call For Yankees

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Will Cody Bellinger Be Benched? Aaron Boone's Tough Call for Yankees

The New York Yankees are facing a critical juncture in their season, and a significant part of that involves the performance – or lack thereof – of outfielder Cody Bellinger. His recent struggles have left manager Aaron Boone with a tough decision: bench Bellinger or ride it out? The question burning in the minds of Yankee fans, analysts, and even Boone himself is: what's next for the former MVP?

Bellinger's arrival in the Bronx was met with considerable fanfare. A former National League MVP and a player known for his power and defensive prowess, he was brought in to bolster the Yankees' lineup. However, his tenure hasn't exactly lived up to expectations. His batting average has been consistently below expectations, raising serious concerns about his place in the starting lineup.

Bellinger's Struggles: A Deeper Dive

Bellinger's struggles aren't just about a slump; they're multifaceted. He's showing a noticeable lack of power, his once-reliable defense has shown inconsistencies, and his overall approach at the plate appears hesitant. This isn't the same player who captivated baseball fans just a few years ago. Several factors could be contributing to this decline, including:

• Injury History: Bellinger has battled various injuries throughout his career, impacting his performance and consistency. The long-term effects of these injuries may be playing a role in his current struggles.
• Mechanical Adjustments: It's not uncommon for hitters to undergo adjustments to their swing mechanics throughout their careers. However, Bellinger's recent changes haven't yielded the desired results.
• Mental Game: The pressure of playing for a high-profile team like the Yankees can significantly impact a player's mental game. The weight of expectations might be contributing to Bellinger's difficulties.

Boone's Dilemma: Bench or Believe?

For manager Aaron Boone, the decision is far from easy. Benching Bellinger would be a bold move, especially given his reputation and the investment the Yankees made in him. However, keeping him in the lineup while he struggles risks hindering the team's overall performance and playoff hopes. Boone will need to carefully weigh the potential benefits of a change against the risks of disrupting team morale.

What's the Likely Outcome?

Predicting Boone's decision is speculative. While a benching isn't out of the question, it's equally possible he opts to give Bellinger more time to work through his issues. The Yankees' upcoming schedule and the performance of other players on the roster will likely influence Boone's decision. A crucial factor will be whether Bellinger can show signs of improvement in the coming games. Perhaps a minor league stint for a brief period to regain his confidence and refine his swing could be considered, a strategy employed by other teams facing similar situations.

Looking Ahead: The Importance of Patience and Strategic Decisions

Ultimately, the situation highlights the complexities of managing high-profile players. The Yankees need to make strategic decisions based on performance, but also on maintaining team morale and fostering a positive atmosphere within the clubhouse. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Bellinger's future with the Yankees and shaping the team's playoff trajectory. Keep an eye on the news for updates as this situation unfolds. What do you think Boone will do? Let us know in the comments below!