The New York Yankees announced Friday that they have exercised the 2025 club option for manager Aaron Boone, opting to bring him back for another season despite a disappointing end to their playoff run against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 World Series.
Boone, who has built a strong rapport with ownership and general manager Brian Cashman, could potentially negotiate a longer-term contract extension.
Such a move, however, would likely divide the fanbase, with supporters split on Boone’s continued tenure at the helm.
Known throughout the league as a “player’s manager,” Boone has achieved considerable success during the regular season since taking charge.
However, his postseason record has been disappointing.
Before the 2024 season, Boone’s Yankees had only advanced to the American League Championship Series twice, with a combined record of 2-8 in those appearances.
Over his six seasons as manager, Boone has posted a record of 603-429, boasting a winning percentage of .584.
In postseason play, however, Boone’s teams have gone 22-23.
The Yankees have not reached the 100-win mark since 2019, although they have managed to finish second or better in the AL East division in all but two of Boone’s seasons at the helm.
In franchise history, Boone ranks seventh in total wins with 603 and is eighth in winning percentage.
Notably, his teams have accumulated a positive record of 174 games over .500, the sixth-best margin among Yankees managers.
Boone also holds a more unique distinction: he leads all Yankees managers with 39 ejections, a record that highlights his fiery approach and willingness to stand up for his players.
Players love Boone and that certainly counts for something. Having said that, he has been accused of being loyal to a fault.
He’s also been accused of not stressing fundamentals enough. (The epic meltdown in Game 5 of the World Series is perfect proof of this.)
The popular thought is that Boone will always be safe under Cashman.
After all, many people feel Boone is used as a “puppet” and that the real managerial strategy is orchestrated by Cashman and the analytic nerds upstairs.
What are your thoughts on the Yankees decision to keep Boone???