Aaron Hicks
Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Hicks reportedly denied appearing for a post-game interview after Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Twins.

The New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Hicks has been in the spotlight recently but for all the wrong reasons. His constant failure on the plate as well as on the field, has put a target on his back. Moreover, the constant pressure from the crowd has got the better of the outfielder as he has been unable to channel his aggressive, offensive gameplay.

   

After a horrendous 2022 season, it looked like 2023 will set a new dawn for Aaron Hicks. Not to be. Hicks’ 2023 season has been off to a controversial start. From public rants against the team to constant boos from the home crowd, the outfielder is having a hard time. Moreover, his recent actions suggest that Hicks might be feeling the heat and is probably taking it to heart.

Is Aaron Hicks Unable To Handle Crowd Pressure?

Aaron Hicks
Aaron Hicks strikes out against the Yankees on Monday. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Hicks is not alien to criticism. All year long in 2022, he faced immense scrutiny from the home crowd owing to repeated failures on the plate. The boos got louder with each passing game. However, Hicks held his chin up and continued to work hard in the live BPs. Even this year, during the spring, he looked in good touch. But the competition from utility player Oswaldo Cabrera for the left field role delayed Hicks’ debut. However, even after getting chances post the public rant, the outfielder has been unable to better his game.

Hence, this season the Yankee fanbase has taken it up a notch higher to criticize Aaron Hicks. The home crowd is hurling boos at Hicks after every strikeout. While the manager, Aaron Boone, and even Hicks himself repeatedly confirmed not getting affected by it, the recent actions suggest otherwise. After Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Twins, Aaron Hicks apparently refused to appear for a post-game interview. He said he was doing a “hot and cold” whirlpool exercise to calm his mind down. This suggests that the scrutiny has messed with the outfielder’s head as he is avoiding the grilling media questions.

Hicks Snaps At Reporter Over Trade Rumors

Aaron Hicks
Philadelphia Phillies v New York Yankees / New York Yankees/GettyImages

Aaron Hicks’ frustration is highly visible. His body language and actions are speaking louder than words ever did. During a recent interview with Fox Sports, Hicks snapped at the reporter over trade questions. The reporter asked if the outfielder wanted to move away from the Yankees to have a fresh start somewhere else. To this, Hicks snapped and said it was just a random question he wouldn’t answer.

Earlier, after the opening day snub, Aaron Hicks came out in the open to criticize the Yankees team and complained of lack of time. He alleged that the team had not communicated with him regarding his role in the club. All these incidents just point to one thing. Hicks is not happy in the Bombers’ camp, and the constant criticism has messed with his mental health.