Full Breakdown
George Lombard Jr.’s Six-Game Error Streak Raises Concerns Ahead of Red Sox Series
8/28/2026, 9:00:25 PM
Core Event: Rookie Shortstop Sets Unwanted Franchise Record
In Thursday night’s 5–1 loss to the Houston Astros, Yankees shortstop George Lombard Jr. committed his sixth consecutive error when a ground ball caromed off his glove and produced a run. The streak ties the longest by a Yankees shortstop since Roger Peckinpaugh in 1915 and is the first six-game error run by any Yankee shortstop since Chick Fewster in 1921. It also marks the longest such stretch in the majors since Mark Lewis recorded seven straight errors in 1992.
Background & Context: Yankees’ Shortstop Instability
The Yankees have cycled through several shortstop options over the past decade. Prior to Lombard, Anthony Volpe led AL shortstops with 19 errors in 2025 while playing through a torn labrum, contributing to fan frustration. Historically, only Peckinpaugh, Fewster, and Lewis have posted comparable streaks.
Data & Statistics
- Errors: 6 in six consecutive games; 7 errors in his first 20 MLB games.
- Fielding Percentage: .925.
- Defensive Runs Saved (DRS): 6, 8th among 60 shortstops with >=170 innings (FanGraphs).
- Offensive Production: .264/.316/.389 slash line, .705 OPS, 2 HR, 6 RBIs, 12 runs, 19 hits in 72 at-bats over 20 games.
- Team Context: Yankees sit at 75-58, second in the AL East, four games behind the Rays and two ahead of the Red Sox for the top wild-card spot.
Official Statements & Responses
Lombard called the streak “not acceptable” and said he must stop forcing pitchers to work extra outs. Manager Aaron Boone rejected giving Lombard a day off, insisting the rookie will “get through it” and urging him to play “loose” rather than “guarding against a mistake.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's something we're trying to figure out,” — George Lombard
- “He'll get through this and put it in the rearview mirror,” — Aaron Boone, Yankees manager
- “I think he’s handling it great, honestly,” — Jazz Chisholm Jr.
What's Next: Red Sox Series
The Yankees open a four-game series against the Boston Red Sox on Friday. Lombard will remain in the lineup as the club seeks to balance defensive stability with his offensive contributions. Reducing his error rate will be a key focus for the coaching staff as the team eyes the AL East race and postseason positioning.
