New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone defended catcher Ali Sanchez on Wednesday night after a critical throwing error allowed the Chicago White Sox to tie the game in the 11th inning, ultimately leading to a 6-5 loss in 12 innings.
With the Yankees leading 5-4 and two outs in the 11th, Sanchez attempted a pickoff throw to third base, but the errant toss sailed into left field, allowing the runner on third to score. The White Sox then capitalized in the following inning when Edgar Quero hit a walk-off single.
"Just got to have a good throw," Boone said after the game. "It’s playing catch. We’re big leaguers and we’re not gonna not do things. Obviously an option is hold it [the ball], but we got to play catch better there."
The Yankees appeared to be on track for a third consecutive victory after building a 4-0 lead, bolstered by a strong start from pitcher Cam Schlittler. However, the White Sox chipped away, scoring a run in the seventh and tying the game with two home runs in the eighth off reliever Paul Blackburn.
The catching position has been a point of concern for the Yankees throughout the season. Starter Austin Wells has struggled offensively with a .159 batting average, JC Escarra was demoted to Triple-A, and Sanchez's recent error has drawn significant fan criticism.
The Yankees are reportedly exploring options at catcher, with reports indicating they were inquiring about Baltimore Orioles All-Star Adley Rutschman as the trade deadline approaches.