In a surprising twist, some New York Yankees fans are taking aim at Gleyber Torres, one of the team’s most productive hitters during the 2024 season. Despite finishing fourth on the team in home runs, trailing only Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Giancarlo Stanton, Torres has faced criticism for his performance. The debate surrounding his future with the Yankees has intensified after reports emerged that the organization might consider letting him go in the offseason.
Gleyber Torres concluded the 2024 season with an impressive home run total, outperforming five of the nine Yankees starting players, including notable names like Anthony Rizzo and Alex Verdugo. Torres’ consistency at the plate was a key factor in keeping the Yankees competitive in a challenging season.While Cody Bellinger, another new addition to the team, hit only two more home runs than Torres, many fans appear to overlook Torres’ contribution. Critics argue that Torres doesn’t bring enough to the table, yet his offensive stats tell a different story.
It’s no secret that home runs are crucial for success in Major League Baseball, especially for a power-focused team like the Yankees. Historically, the Yankees have relied on their sluggers to secure wins, and Torres has been a valuable part of that equation.Fans need to recognize that home runs drive this team’s success,” said a sports analyst. “If you’re blaming Torres while five other starters hit fewer home runs, that’s a misplaced critique.
Despite his solid numbers, Torres has become a polarizing figure among Yankees fans. Some see him as expendable, while others argue that letting him go would be a mistake, especially given the team’s current roster challenges.One fan on social media wrote, “If the Yankees are serious about winning in 2025, they need Torres. Judge, Stanton, and Bellinger can’t do it all alone.”Another countered, “Torres isn’t consistent enough for the playoffs. We need fresh talent.
The Yankees’ offseason decisions will be closely watched, with the organization needing to fill gaps left by potential departures. Rumors suggest that the team is exploring replacements for Torres, Rizzo, and Verdugo, but finding players who can match their production won’t be easy.The Yankees need to be cautious here,” said a league insider. “Losing Torres without signing equally productive players could set the team back.”
For a team that failed to meet expectations in 2024, the Yankees’ focus will undoubtedly shift to rebuilding a lineup capable of making a deep playoff run in 2025. While Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Cody Bellinger provide a strong foundation, the Yankees cannot afford to rely solely on these three players to carry the offense.Fans are calling for the front office to sign proven sluggers to complement the core lineup. Some have also suggested giving Torres an extension to secure his place on the team and avoid unnecessary gaps in the batting order.As the offseason unfolds, one thing is clear: the Yankees’ decisions regarding Gleyber Torres and the rest of the roster will shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.
The criticism directed at Gleyber Torres highlights the pressure of playing in New York, where even solid performances can be overshadowed by lofty expectations. Whether the Yankees choose to retain Torres or part ways with him, the decision will undoubtedly spark debate among fans and analysts alike.For now, the ball is in the Yankees’ court as they work to build a winning formula for 2025 and beyond