Brewers Manager Pat Murphy Criticizes 2023 Yankees in Post‑World Series Remarks

Murphy’s Remarks and Context

Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy was captured on video delivering a sharp critique of the New York Yankees’ 2023 roster during a post‑World Series celebration. In a conversation with veteran infielder Jake Bauers, Murphy said, "You're going to be a rich fucker. Just remember when you were on that horseshit Yankees team and you guys were all playing for yourself? Just remember, say, 'This is the way we used to do it.'" The comment, which surfaced on Wednesday night after the Brewers clinched the 2026 World Series title, contrasts sharply with the Yankees’ disappointing 2023 campaign.

Bauers, who joined the Brewers after the 2023 season, spent one year with New York. That year the Yankees finished fourth in the AL East, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016. His offensive numbers with the Yankees were modest: a .202 batting average, 12 home runs, and a .724 OPS in 84 games. Since moving to Milwaukee, Bauers has flourished, posting a .266 average, 26 home runs, and an .874 OPS in the 2026 regular season—career highs that helped him earn NLCS MVP honors as the Brewers swept the Los Angeles Dodgers and advanced to their first World Series since 1982.

Murphy himself has had a standout season, leading Milwaukee to a championship and making him a favorite for the National League Manager of the Year award for a third consecutive year. The manager’s remarks underscore a narrative shift from the Yankees’ recent struggles to the Brewers’ resurgence.

Impact on Team Narrative and Fan Perception

The comment has sparked discussion among fans and analysts alike. While some view Murphy’s words as a candid reflection on the Yankees’ lack of cohesion in 2023, others see it as a bold assertion of Milwaukee’s new identity as a championship contender. The contrast between the two franchises—Yankees missing the playoffs versus Brewers capturing a title—highlights how quickly baseball fortunes can change.

The remark also draws attention to the broader conversation about team culture. Murphy’s jab suggests a perceived difference in work ethic and unity between the two clubs, a theme echoed by other World Series participants. Los Angeles Dodgers pitchers Joe Kelly and Miguel Rojas previously described the 2024 Yankees as "sloppy" and "lazy" on defense, reinforcing a pattern of criticism directed at New York’s recent performance.

What Is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear

Confirmed facts

• A video exists of Pat Murphy speaking to Jake Bauers, containing the quoted language about the "horseshit Yankees team."
• The Yankees’ 2023 season record: fourth place in the AL East, no playoff appearance.
• Bauers’ 2023 Yankees stats: .202 AVG, 12 HR, 84 games.
• Bauers’ 2026 Brewers stats: .266 AVG, 26 HR, .874 OPS, NLCS MVP.
• The Brewers’ 2026 World Series victory and first title since 1982.
• Trevor Megill’s post‑win comment to MLB reporter Ben Verlander: "Have fun talking shit to Chicago next year. We have a ring."

Uncertain

• Whether the Yankees organization will issue an official response.
• The potential effect of Murphy’s remarks on his Manager of the Year candidacy.
• How the comment will be perceived by MLB officials regarding sportsmanship standards.

How Readers Can Verify

The Guardian article dated October 29, 2026, provides the original coverage and video footage: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/oct/29/pat-murphy-new-york-yankees-milwaukee-brewers. Readers can view the source material directly to confirm the exact wording and context of Murphy’s remarks.

Practical Implications and Broader Context

Managerial comments during championship celebrations often become part of a team’s lore and can influence public perception. In this case, Murphy’s critique serves two purposes: it highlights the stark contrast between the Yankees’ 2023 underperformance and the Brewers’ 2026 success, and it reinforces a narrative of cultural superiority that can motivate players and fans alike.

From a practical standpoint, such remarks may affect free‑agent recruitment. Prospective players evaluating the Brewers’ culture might view the emphasis on teamwork—contrasted with the perceived self‑interest of the 2023 Yankees—as a selling point. Conversely, the Yankees may need to address any lingering impressions of disunity that the criticism brings to light.

The incident also illustrates how social media amplifies moments that were once confined to locker rooms. The video’s rapid spread underscores the importance of careful wording by public figures, especially when they hold leadership positions that could influence league-wide discussions about professionalism.

Overall, the episode provides a clear example of how a single, well‑timed comment can reinforce a team’s identity, shape fan discourse, and contribute to the broader story of a championship season.