Cashman Accepts Murphy Apology After World Series Comments

Clearing the Air

New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman accepted an apology from Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy this week at the general managers meetings.

Murphy targeted New York after Milwaukee won the World Series last month. First baseman Jake Bauers handed Murphy the final out ball from a Game 5 win over Tampa Bay on Oct. 28. Murphy used profanity when talking about the Yankees, pointing to their 82-80 record in 2023 when Bauers played in New York. A video captured Murphy telling players they used to play for themselves.

Within 12 hours, Murphy tracked down the Yankees to apologize. Cashman said that gesture meant a lot to him. Murphy explained that he uses any tool he can to motivate his team. Cashman was gracious during the conversation, according to Murphy.

Motivation and History

Murphy won the NL Manager of the Year award on Tuesday night. He became the first skipper in either league to win the award three seasons in a row. He noted that he did not mean to target New York specifically, adding that he could have named other big market clubs like the Dodgers or the Giants.

Cashman acknowledged that opponent comments do not shock him. He recalled when the Marlins put the Yankees logo on their World Series ring after beating New York. Cashman noted that the team always tries to live up to its history of success.

New York was swept by Tampa Bay in the AL Division Series. The franchise has not won a World Series title since 2009, which was its 26th championship.

Pressure and Former Players

Cashman understands the anger from fans after another year without a trophy. He explained that fan pressure acts like constant motivation for the front office. Cashman is entering his 30th season leading baseball operations for New York. He confirmed his new contract is finalized, though he did not share its length. He admitted that the noise gets louder the longer the title drought continues.

Cashman also addressed recent comments from former All Star catcher Jorge Posada, who said that the team made him feel unwelcome. Cashman expressed surprise at those remarks. He stated that former players are always welcome to reach out and engage with the organization. Cashman added that both he and Posada want the team to be great, even though results have fallen short of that standard recently.