Yankees’ Baserunning Blunders Under Fire

In a jaw-dropping moment on Friday, Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. showcased his defensive prowess during a game against the New York Yankees. However, it was the Yankees' lackluster baserunning that truly stole the spotlight—and not in a good way.

During the top of the third inning, Acuña made a spectacular catch off Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger. But it was his incredible throw that thwarted Jorbit Vivas as he attempted to tag from second to third base, resulting in a perfect double play that left the Yankees frustrated.

Broadcast Team Calls Out Yankees' Mistakes

As the Yankees faced defeat with a 7-3 score in their post-All-Star break game, the team’s broadcast crew, including Michael Kay and Joe Girardi, did not hold back in their criticism. They highlighted how that missed opportunity could have changed the game, especially with star hitter Aaron Judge waiting on deck.

Girardi lamented, "That can’t happen. Those are little things that cost you a chance to have Aaron Judge hit with 1st and 3rd." Kay echoed his dismay, stating, "You just took the bat out of Aaron Judge’s hands. Perfect word: inexcusable."

Persistent Issues in Baserunning

Kay emphasized that these mistakes are far from isolated incidents, calling for the Yankees to focus on tightening up their baserunning, a trend that has been plaguing them for the past month.

Acuña’s Stellar Comeback Season

Despite the Yankees’ struggles, Acuña continues to shine after recovering from a torn ACL that sidelined him in 2024. Recently named an All-Star for the fifth time, he’s making a strong comeback—hitting 12 home runs and driving in 22 RBIs in just 45 games this season. With a stellar .323 batting average and a jaw-dropping 1.025 OPS, Acuña is once again proving why he was the National League MVP just two seasons ago.

The Yankees will need to regroup quickly if they want to contend in the fiercely competitive league, starting with correcting their baserunning blunders.