Jorge Posada Feels Unwelcome by Yankees Organization
Former Yankees catcher Jorge Posada expressed that he believes the organization no longer wants him involved.
Former New York Yankees catcher Jorge Posada stated in a recent podcast appearance that he feels unwelcome by the organization and believes they do not desire his involvement.
In an episode of "The Show" podcast with Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman, Posada shared his sentiment, saying, "I don’t think they want me there to tell you the truth." He elaborated that this feeling extends to events like spring training, leading him to avoid attending.
"I don’t feel welcome when I go there, you know? Even in spring training, I don’t feel like — I’m just like, I don’t know, like, I don’t feel welcome. I don’t feel like they want me there, so I don’t go," Posada said.
Posada's comments came after he was asked about the potential need for individuals within the Yankees organization who possess a strong passion for the team's brand and have the intensity he exhibited during his playing career. Posada was a key member of the "Core Four" alongside Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, and Andy Pettitte, winning five World Series titles during his 17-year tenure with the team from 1995 to 2011.
When asked to pinpoint a specific reason for his feelings, Posada referenced the difficult conclusion to his playing career with the Yankees in 2011. He described that season as personally challenging due to how he and the team handled the situation, particularly regarding his playing time and transition to designated hitter.
"I don’t know what happened. I’d rather just move forward," Posada stated. "My last season of my career was a really tough one when it comes to handling everything in my part and also the Yankees toward Jorge Posada. So, it’s tough to go back and feel that again."
He clarified that while he had discussions with then-manager Joe Girardi about the decisions, he did not directly address the issues with general manager Brian Cashman or owner Hal Steinbrenner at the time. Posada expressed frustration at not having the opportunity to compete for his position.
Posada has maintained some connection with the franchise, attending Old Timers' Days and participating in events like the 25th-anniversary celebration of the 1998 championship team in 2023. He noted his straightforward communication style as a defining aspect of his personality and approach to the game.
Since retiring as a player, Posada has engaged in various baseball-related roles, including a front office position with the Miami Marlins and serving as the bench coach for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic. He mentioned finding satisfaction in his time with the Marlins due to its flexible nature.
Reflecting on the Yankees' recent postseason performance, Posada acknowledged their struggles, citing injuries, particularly to Aaron Judge, and the team's inability to advance further in the playoffs. He suggested that the acquired players did not significantly alter the team's trajectory.