JUST IN: Dodgers announced the contract extension of a legendary player…

When Joe Kelly, a reliever for the Dodgers, spoke out against the Yankees’ World Series performance, it added a fresh chapter to the longstanding animosity between the two teams.

While defending his club from accusations that they were faulty, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said that his squad “underperformed” and didn’t bring their “A-game” to the series.

Asked about the team’s defense and baserunning, two areas that were perceived as crucial disparities in the World Series, Cashman responded, “First and foremost, I acknowledge we played poorly in the Series,” during this week’s GM Meetings in San Antonio.

“Unfortunately, our A-game didn’t show up when it mattered the most,” he said after acknowledging the situation. “I also believe that, from an objective standpoint, when you look at the rosters of all the postseason teams—the Dodgers included—and other teams in the National League—those teams essentially consist of players who excel in certain areas.”
Cashman did not explicitly address the shortcomings that the Dodgers demonstrated over the five World Series games, although he did acknowledge the Yankees’ difficulties. On the other hand, Kelly was not shy with his criticisms.

Even if the Yankees weren’t great in clutch situations, Cashman remained steadfast in his support of the squad, saying that they were still a formidable opponent.

While acknowledging that his club was competent, Cashman lamented that they failed to deliver in crucial moments. “Every year’s different,” he continued, denying that the Yankees had any flaws. In each of those seasons, we might have easily finished first or last, depending on how well we played the game.

The fact that Kelly skipped the World Series made it difficult for Cashman to treat him seriously. Cashman dismissed Kelly’s criticism as insignificant and unprofessional.

I think it’s more typical of some specific players rather than the general group. I also know folks with the Dodgers, so I’ve had some internal talks about which I’ve gotten criticism. It seems like there’s a personal angle to Joe’s situation, given the way he’s been speaking publicly. Therefore, it seems like that’s the most intimate part.

Therefore, I am limited to making that much. At this very moment, I can tell that he is talking a lot. To top it all off, “He won” or “they won,” so Cashman may simply repeat herself.