Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for gathering here today. I stand before you not just as a player for the New York Yankees, but as someone who deeply cares about this team, our fans, and the spirit of baseball itself. It’s never easy to address tough moments, but I believe it’s essential to share what’s on my heart after a challenging season.
As we approach the final games, I can’t help but reflect on the journey we’ve had together this year. From the highs of incredible victories to the lows of unexpected losses, this season has tested us in ways we could have never anticipated. It’s been a rollercoaster ride, one filled with hard-fought battles and moments that made us question our resolve.
I want to take a moment to acknowledge the dedication and passion of our fans. You are the backbone of this organization. Your unwavering support has been our motivation, whether we were riding high or struggling to find our footing. The energy you bring to the ballpark is unlike anything else, and I can’t express how grateful I am for each of you. You show up for us day in and day out, and that means the world.
As a team, we set ambitious goals for ourselves this year. We dreamed of competing for a championship, and every single day, we put in the work to make that a reality. Yet, as the season has progressed, it’s become clear that we have faced obstacles that were beyond our control. Injuries have plagued us, altering our lineup and forcing us to adapt in ways we didn’t expect. It’s been disheartening to watch teammates struggle with injuries, knowing how hard they worked to be in this position.
I want to express my deep admiration for my fellow players. Each one of them has shown incredible resilience, pouring their hearts into every game. We’ve faced adversity together, leaned on one another, and fought through challenges that would have broken lesser teams. But the truth is, despite our efforts, we find ourselves at a crossroads.
As we look ahead, I know it’s easy to feel disheartened. The weight of expectations can be heavy, and the reality of our situation may feel overwhelming. But I urge everyone, players and fans alike, to remember what it means to wear this jersey. The New York Yankees represent more than just wins and losses; we embody a legacy of grit, determination, and the pursuit of excellence.
We may not achieve everything we set out to do this season, but I believe in the foundation we’ve built. The lessons we’ve learned, the friendships we’ve forged, and the passion we share will carry us forward. We owe it to ourselves and to you, our fans, to keep pushing, to keep fighting.
As we approach these final games, I ask for your continued support. Let’s fill the stadium with the energy that makes Yankee Stadium so special. Let’s show up for one another, celebrate the good moments, and learn from the tough ones.
In closing, I want to say thank you. Thank you to my teammates, our coaches, and every single fan who believes in this team. No matter what happens, we are in this together, and I promise to give everything I have on that field. The journey isn’t over yet, and I am determined to finish strong.
Let’s go out there and play the game we love. Together.
