ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Yankees need to ignore the criticism leveled toward them from Jorge Posada. And hear his passion. Heed how much he cares about this franchise. Note that he feels he has insight into the game, into playing it with all that comes in New York, and wants to help.
Speaking earlier this week on “The Show with Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman,” Posada revealed, “I don’t feel welcome” around the Yankees.
Look, few players — notably long-serving stars — have a peaceful end game with organizations. They look in the mirror and generally still see their best selves and feel the team owes them for great services rendered. So, Derek Jeter did not like the Yankees’ tough stance in late-career contract negotiations. Alex Rodriguez was upset about being released with time left on his contract. Brett Gardner was miffed that the Yankees did not re-sign him for one last season. And Posada was peeved about being diminished from catcher, to DH, to part-timer as his production waned.
I have known Posada for more than 30 years and he was among my favorites to cover for his unfiltered honesty and passion. Nothing has changed in retirement. And I think there has been a general misconception about his grievance. It has nothing to do with Aaron Boone, his former teammate who personally invites him to spring training annually.
