To say that the New York Yankees have been disappointing in 2023 would be an understatement. Trailing fourth in the AL East, the team’s offensive power could do with some polishing. The first half of the season has gone by in a haze but starter Gerrit Cole remains hopeful.

The pitcher appeared in his sixth consecutive All-Star Game recently, starting for the American League. The first Yankee since 2001 to start a Midsummer Classic, Cole pitched a scoreless first inning, earning cheers. But some of his later comments earned fans’ ire, especially New Yorkers.

Gerrit Cole’s loyalty to the New York Yankees remains true as ever

Cole’s individual performance has been spectacular, no doubt. But unfortunately, a baseball team can’t survive on defense alone. The Yankees’ offensive performance has suffered terribly this season, especially since Aaron Judge exited the lineup after a toe injury. Nevertheless, Cole remains optimistic.

When a reporter asked him, “This is kind of like a bucket list item for you to cross off. What’s next after this?” Cole had a simple answer, “Well, World Series championship.” Although Cole performed admirably at the Midsummer Classic, it seems next to impossible for his team to make it to the Fall Classic.

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Although the pitcher’s current $324 million contract keeps him in the Bronx till 2028, it’s worth wondering if he will ever win a World Series Championship ring. Previously with the Houston Astros, the franchise famously won rings before and after Cole’s tenure. Will he be able to change things up in New York?

His response was certainly not well-received by baseball fans.

MLB fans are irritated by Cole’s blind faith in the Yankees

One would hope that Cole’s presence as the sole Yankee at the All-Star Game would serve as a wake-up call to the team. Since Aaron Judge had to pull out to recover from his injury, the pitcher bore the responsibility of answering questions about his team’s latest decisions.

The Pinstripes’ current league standings at 49-42, the latest coach firing, and new hiring – Cole addressed everything. But after the ASG was over, some felt that his dreams of a championship were too big.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone also received some flak, while some berated the rest of the lineup.

Cole may be making waves within the league, but his team will need to step up their game if they want to have a playoff chance this year.

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