Amidst a losing streak, the New York Yankees attempted to inject some levity in the dugout. Prior to their final game against the Cincinnati Reds, two Yankees players engaged in a national anthem standoff with two Reds players—a playful competition to see who could stay on the field the longest during the anthem, with the losing team returning to the dugout first.
However, Yankees manager Aaron Boone intervened eventually, instructing his players to return to the dugout, much to the amusement of the Reds dugout.
🚨Standoff Alert🚨 pic.twitter.com/iSAJWANzvA
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) July 4, 2024
The Yankees went on to lose the game, mirroring their recent on-field struggles where they were swept by the Reds later that day.
While the standoff initially appeared harmless, the team’s own announcer expressed dissatisfaction. Michael Kay criticized the Yankees on his radio show, labeling the act as “sophomoric nonsense” that diminished the team’s reputation. He emphasized that such behavior was uncharacteristic of the prestigious New York Yankees, stating, “What are we, infants? This is the New York Yankees.” Kay acknowledged Boone’s decision to halt the standoff, commending him for restoring order.
Kay’s sentiments were echoed by New York Mets announcer Howie Rose, who questioned the gesture’s maturity and relevance.
The Yankees, who have struggled with a series of losses following a strong start, face a critical juncture as they confront the Boston Red Sox. Their recent performance suggests they may soon slip to third place in the AL East if improvements aren’t made promptly.