Yankees' Cashman: 'Whole world knows why' Sanchez was benched
New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman believes it's no secret catcher Gary Sanchez was benched during the 2020 playoffs due to his struggles.
"I think the whole world knows why he was benched, and whether he was told directly or indirectly - I mean, the manager's card on a daily basis is a statement in its own right," Cashman told "Moose & Maggie" on WFAN. "You have to earn your keep, and you got earn your way on the card and to stay on that card."
Sanchez said in late December the Yankees never told him the reason behind his benching.
"Whether you were told directly - and I'm not saying he wasn't, and I'm not saying that he was. I don't really care, it's pretty much self-aware at that point," Cashman said. "You had a horrible year on both sides of the ball. You lost your job at the most important time of the season, which is October baseball. I'm not sure if an explanation is necessary."
The longtime Yankees executive added: "I'm not going to judge him on the last year ... We've had a lot of conversations with Gary, and I do know the talent he possesses, and I do know that he cares."
The two-time All-Star registered one hit, which was a home run, in three postseason games last season. The 28-year-old slashed .147/.253/.365 with 10 round-trippers in 49 regular-season contests for New York.
Sanchez will make $6.35 million in 2021. He's eligible for arbitration one more time in 2022 before he can test free agency.