Yankees cut player!

Thursday in the MLB hot stove scenario didn’t see any groundbreaking player transactions, but it did give rise to a rather intriguing rumor, courtesy of former All-Star catcher A.J. Pierzynski, centering around former New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Hicks. Hicks, a notable figure not just for his contributions on the baseball field but also for his keen interest in golf with aspirations for the PGA Tour, found himself entangled in a speculation web regarding his exit from the Yankees in May of the previous year.

Aaron Hicks, a familiar name due to his dual status as a big leaguer and an avid golfer, often participating in celebrity golf events, has an impressive golfing background. He has even achieved the remarkable feat of making a hole-in-one on a par 4! Adding to the intrigue is Hicks’ marriage to Cheyenne Woods, the niece of none other than golf legend Tiger Woods.

However, according to A.J. Pierzynski’s claim on the “Foul Territory” show, it’s suggested that Hicks’ passion for golf might have played a role in the somewhat messy conclusion to his tenure with the Yankees. Pierzynski mentioned that there was a rumor circulating that the Yankees, in response to concerns about potential injuries, allegedly advised Hicks to discontinue his participation in the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions—an event that encompasses both celebrity and LPGA components.

Despite Pierzynski expressing uncertainty about the accuracy of this claim not once but twice, and acknowledging his own reputation for stirring the pot, the story suggests a possible clash between Hicks’ love for golf and the demands of his baseball career. It’s worth noting, however, that Hicks was hitting .188 when the Yankees decided to part ways with him, indicating that his on-field performance likely factored into the decision.

Further, it’s important to consider the timing of the golf event in question, taking place in January, several weeks before the commencement of spring training. This raises doubts about the significance of this particular tournament in influencing the Yankees’ decision-making process regarding Hicks. Additionally, the Mets’ recent celebration of another MLB player, Jeff McNeil, who participated and won in a similar golf event, suggests that such participation is not universally frowned upon in the baseball world.

In the aftermath of his departure from the Yankees, Hicks found success with the Baltimore Orioles in the latter part of the season. At the age of 34, he is currently a free agent, affording him the freedom to indulge in his passion for golf without any imposed restrictions.