Cashman Clarifies Ties With Posada After ‘Welcome’ Comments
· Yahoo Sports
Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman said on Tuesday that he was surprised by former catcher Jorge Posada’s comments. Cashman also addressed a recent viral moment involving Brewers manager Pat Murphy. While addressing the General Managers Meetings earlier this week, Cashman offered these remarks according to The New York Daily News.
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Cashman said the two men discussed the ex-catcher’s remarks about not feeling wanted around the organization. Posada told “The Show” in October that he does not feel like the Yankees want him there. He added that he has been a guest instructor in spring training but chooses not to go because of his feelings.
Cashman pushed back against the idea that the front office ignores its history. He told reporters that he and owner Hal Steinbrenner are always available for past players who have thoughts or concerns. The general manager made sure to tell Posada during a recent phone call that the former player is welcome.
The General Manager’s Stance
Cashman noted that Posada is a regular at Old-Timers’ Day and even appeared on a show hosted by Cashman’s daughter. He said the four-time World Series champ played for the Yankees from 1995 to 2011. Cashman stated that while he was surprised by Posada’s comments, there were no hard feelings on his end.
The general manager emphasized that the organization values its history while focusing on the current season. He said, “We’re not ducking calls or not taking calls or not having meetings or what have you. We value our present, but we also value our past.” Cashman added that any former player who wants to engage knows where to find the team.
He acknowledged that ridicule comes with the territory in a world full of content. This follows similar comments from Anthony Rizzo, CC Sabathia, Dellin Betances, and Joe Girardi. These former players questioned the Yankees’ culture after the team lost to the Rays in the ALDS last month.
Shared Desire for Greatness
Cashman spoke specifically about Posada’s desire for the team to succeed. He said, “Jorge wants us to be great. We want us to be great. Unfortunately, we have been good, but we haven’t been great.” Cashman noted that the team has not won a championship since 2009.
The general manager pointed out that while Posada owns a few rings, there were years he could not win a title with his teammates. Cashman said, “there were a lot of years he wasn’t able to push through [and win a championship] with his teammates.” This comment highlights the pressure on the current roster to finally break the long drought.
The conversation comes at a time when the team faces criticism for its 17-year title drought. Cashman remains focused on the present while keeping the door open for former stars to help. He made it clear that the front office is listening to feedback from its own history.
The Pat Murphy Situation
Following Milwaukee’s World Series victory, Murphy employed foul language when referring to the Yankees. The Brewers had just beaten the Rays in the postseason.
During celebrations with postseason standout Jake Bauers, Murphy was recorded on a hot mic. The 2023 Yankees club, which failed to reach the playoffs, featured Bauers. Murphy told Bauers, “You’re going to be a rich motherf—,” but reminded him of his time on the Yankees.
The incident drew attention to the culture of the Yankees organization. Cashman did not specify if he spoke to Murphy, but he addressed the comments alongside the Posada situation. The general manager noted that Murphy was celebrating a championship win against a former teammate.
The Yankees have seen a wave of criticism from former players in recent months. Cashman’s response says the organization is open to dialogue despite the tough words.