Joe Kelly slams Yankees as ‘Worst Playoff Team’ After Dodgers’ World Series Win
In a scathing critique, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Joe Kelly did not hold back in his assessment of the New York Yankees after the Dodgers secured their eighth World Series title. In a recent appearance on the podcast The Baseball Isn’t Boring, Kelly openly expressed his dissatisfaction with the Yankees’ performance, calling them “one of the worst teams in the playoffs.”
Joe Kelly’s Brutal Commentary on the Yankees’ Performance
The Dodgers’ victory over the Yankees in a five-game series made them the reigning MLB champions, and Kelly didn’t miss the opportunity to reflect on what he saw as the Yankees’ weaknesses. “We were saying it every single game, just let them throw the ball to the infield,” Kelly remarked. “They can’t make a play.” Kelly pointed to a specific incident involving Gleyber Torres, saying, “You saw Shohei get an extra base going to third on a sloppy play by Gleyber. It’s well known. We all knew.”
Kelly’s criticism didn’t stop there; he questioned the Yankees’ playoff ranking, suggesting they should be lower than their position indicated. “If we had a playoff re-ranking, they might be ranked the 8th or 9th best playoff team,” Kelly said, asserting that the Dodgers held a significant advantage from the start.
Comparison to Past Series and the Dodgers’ Winning Formula
Reflecting on the Dodgers’ victory, Kelly drew comparisons to the 2018 World Series when his former team, the Boston Red Sox, defeated the Dodgers. “It was kind of the same feeling from 2018,” he explained. According to Kelly, the Dodgers didn’t need to employ any extraordinary tactics against the Yankees. “All we knew was that we had to play regular Dodgers baseball. We didn’t have to do anything crazy, and we were going to win the World Series.”
Kelly highlighted the Dodgers’ team culture, praising their attention to detail and commitment. “Look at the team, look at the talent. We go through numerous scouting reports. We pay attention to every single detail,” he added. Kelly credited the Dodgers’ success not only to their superstar talent but to a dedicated work ethic that set them apart from other teams, including the Yankees. “Our superstars also care, aren’t lazy, and play hard. That’s the difference and the biggest separator.”
Yankees GM Cashman Stands By Manager Boone Amid Criticism
Following Kelly’s remarks, Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman defended Yankees manager Aaron Boone, who has faced mounting criticism for the team’s management during the series. Cashman praised Boone’s abilities and the challenges he faces as a manager. “The manager’s job is so impossible; you can play the game of second-guessing,” Cashman told SNY. “You’re either going to make a move, and it’ll be right, or make a move, and it will be wrong. I think he’s a really, really good manager. We’re lucky to have him, and he’s done a great job.”
Cashman’s defense of Boone highlights the high expectations and scrutiny surrounding the Yankees, especially when facing powerhouse teams like the Dodgers. As speculation around Boone’s future continues, Cashman’s support may be crucial in retaining the current leadership.
Dodgers Secure Their Eighth MLB World Series Title
This latest championship victory over the Yankees adds to the Dodgers’ impressive legacy, marking their second World Series win in just five years. The Dodgers now have eight championships to their name, with previous titles earned in 1955, 1959, 1963, 1965, 1981, 1988, 2020, and 2024. The triumph solidifies the Dodgers’ position as a dominant force in Major League Baseball, emphasizing a team culture focused on excellence, commitment, and strategic gameplay.
The Road Ahead: Yankees’ Future in Question?
The Yankees face a pivotal moment as they assess their performance, coaching staff, and player roster. With sharp criticism from rivals like Joe Kelly and continued pressure from fans and the media, the Yankees’ management may need to consider adjustments for future success. Cashman’s defense of Boone shows the organization’s loyalty, but it remains to be seen if that will be enough to satisfy stakeholders demanding change.
As the Dodgers celebrate their victory, Kelly’s remarks serve as a reminder of the intense competition and scrutiny in the MLB, where performance under pressure and consistency separate the champions from the rest. The Yankees may need to reassess their strategies and roster to regain their status as a top-tier playoff contender in the seasons to come.
