Yankees slip deeper in the standings after a 4-1 loss to Minnesota, a result that extends their stretch of trouble to eight losses in 12 games. In a pivotal sixth inning tied game, Aaron Boone turned to Yerry De Los Santos, a reliever not trusted in high-leverage spots this season, and he paid the price, failing to retire a batter and allowing three runs. The defeat underscored a bullpen and in-game management issue that’s fueling growing frustration around the club.

Michael Kay voiced the frustration on ESPN radio, accusing Boone of sticking to a predetermined lane rather than adapting to the moment and game situation. The Yankees sit level with Cleveland in the loss column, while Texas looms, adding pressure as the calendar turns toward meaningful mid-September games. Minnesota used timely hitting and the bullpen miscue to seize the win and keep their own playoff push intact.

The undercurrent for fantasy managers is clear: bullpen roles and late-inning leverage are now more volatile, and any shift in usage could alter who carries value down the stretch. The Twins’ win amplifies the urgency for New York to recalibrate and extract better outcomes from its relievers and strategic decisions.

In short, Boone’s decision and the ensuing slide have revived questions about the coaching staff’s adaptability. If the Yankees can’t pivot quickly, these losses could become a defining storyline of the season, with the team’s postseason hopes hanging in the balance as rivals close the gap.

Yerry De los Santos is on the mend as the Yankees reliever progresses through rehab, reporting positive feelings after a recent bullpen session at Citi Field. Out since June due to elbow discomfort, De los Santos emphasizes the importance of addressing issues early this time to avoid past mistakes. Meanwhile, Cody Bellinger made his first start at first base this season, a strategic move by manager Aaron Boone to enhance the lineup's left-handed presence against the Mets. Boone also provided updates on Ryan Yarbrough, who is nearing a return from his injury.

The New York Yankees find themselves facing a familiar crisis as injuries take a toll on their pitching staff. Recently, Ryan Yarbrough was placed on the injured list due to a strained oblique, following Yerry De Los Santos, who is dealing with elbow discomfort. Both players' absences underscore the depth issues the Yankees are experiencing, especially with Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, and Marcus Stroman already on the shelf. Yarbrough, initially signed as a multi-inning reliever, had to step into a starting role, showcasing the team's desperate need for pitching reinforcements.

With the trade deadline looming in about six weeks, the Yankees may be forced to make moves for relief help. Potential targets identified include Ryan Helsley, Emmanuel Clase, and David Bednar, among others. However, many of these pitchers are on teams that may be reluctant to sell. As the Yankees patch together their roster, the urgency for stability grows, especially with October aspirations at stake.

The New York Yankees have made a significant roster move by designating Carlos Carrasco for assignment after a disappointing stint. Carrasco, who struggled with a 5.91 ERA and a 2-2 record in eight appearances, has been replaced by Yerry De Los Santos, who has been successful in Triple-A with a 1.74 ERA. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed admiration for Carrasco's character, indicating the decision was difficult but necessary. Meanwhile, Giancarlo Stanton continues to recover from elbow issues, showing promise in recent live batting practice.

Despite fluctuating performance, the Chicago Cubs are considering a third base overhaul as they look to the future. Matt Shaw, who struggled offensively at the start of the season, may return to the MLB by 2025, while Jon Berti's versatility at multiple infield positions could come into play if the Cubs seek a third baseman before the trade deadline. The New York Yankees, facing a second base challenge with Jazz Chisholm Jr. on the IL, may find Berti an appealing option given his 2024 performance with the Cubs and previous stint with them. Berti could serve as a temporary fix while the Cubs explore moves to bolster their bullpen with potential trades involving Yankees pitchers Yerry De Los Santos or Brent Headrick.