Part 3/8:
As the new baseball season rolls around, the Yankees find themselves in uncharted territory, not as reigning champions but as playoff losers. This position is foreign for a franchise that has celebrated numerous victories. Heading into spring training, the essence of being a hopeful contender transforms into inquiries of growth and improvement. Questions surrounding what is needed to take the next step loom large, despite their winning the pennant—a feat that many teams yearn for.
Aaron Boone, the Yankees’ manager, faces the media as he prepares to guide this team forward. Among the anticipated queries about last year's shortcomings and team changes is one that cuts deeper: How will the Yankees respond to the Dodgers' revelry following their triumph?