The New York Yankees are in a tough spot, fighting for an AL Wild Card spot but sitting 6.5 games behind Toronto in the AL East with a 61-55 record. Since the July 30, 2025, trade deadline, they’ve gone 1-7, including a 5-3 loss to the Houston Astros on August 8. Fans are frustrated with manager Aaron Boone’s laid-back style, saying he’s not pushing the team hard enough. The team’s weak defense—missed catches and bad throws—and shaky bullpen, which keeps losing leads, are getting the most heat, despite a $289.7 million payroll and a 26-34 record since May 28.

Some players, like former Yankee Lance Lynn, defend Boone, saying he keeps the team together behind the scenes, especially with stars like Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole injured. But legends like Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez call out the sloppy defense and lack of fire. New trade deadline additions like relievers David Bednar, Camilo Doval, and Jake Bird, plus third baseman Ryan McMahon, haven’t worked out, and pitcher Luis Gil gave up 5 runs in 3.1 innings in his return. Boone’s 651-469 record over eight years is good, but with no World Series and ongoing defensive and bullpen issues, fans are demanding a new manager.

Boone hopes to turn the Yankees around, but they’re still in the Wild Card fight, holding the third spot by just 0.5 games. A quick change in momentum is critical, or their postseason chances could slip away. If things don’t improve, the Yankees might look at Buck Showalter, who managed them in the 1990s with a tough approach, or Joe Maddon, a World Series winner with the Cubs. Inside the team, bench coach Brad Ausmus or Triple-A manager Shelley Duncan could step up. With 46 games left, including big series against Boston and Houston, Boone needs to fix the defense and bullpen fast to keep the playoff dream alive.