Aaron Hicks' parting words as the New York Yankees kick him to the curb: "I loved being a Yankee. It was the best time of my career"

The day has finally come for New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Hicks. After weeks of struggles, the 33-year-old has been designated for free agency after eight seasons in the Bronx.

While nobody can say that the team's move came as a big surprise, the move comes as a significant roster change for the Yankees, and opens a plethora of new opportunities for them in the outfield.

"The Yankees have designated Aaron Hicks for assignment, per @eboland11" - Fox Sports: MLB

In 28 games this season, Hicks has put up a paltry .188 batting average with just one home run and five RBIs. Additionally, his defensive play in the outfield has also been called into question.

Aaron Hicks, who came to the Yankees via a 2016 trade with the Minnesota Twins, offered some parting words as he prepared to leave New York. Speaking to NewsDay Sports, Hicks said: that he "loved" playing for the team and said it was "the best part of my career."

"Hicks to @NewsdaySports: 'I loved being a Yankee. It was the best time of my career.'” - Erik Boland

Troubles for Hicks began late last season, when the Yankees traded to acquire outfielder Harrison Bader from the St. Louis Cardinals. With Bader's arrival, many began to believe that Aaron Hicks was on his way out.

Following the commencement of the 2023 season, word got out that Hicks had complained to New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone about his lack of playing time. This, along with his play, caused many Yankees fans to take to social media to disparage Hicks and claim that they wanted him gone.

It is widely expected that outfielder Greg Allen may take Hicks' place in the outfield. Allen, 30, was acquired from the Boston Red Sox on May 19 has yet to play a game this season. As per MLB assignment rules, the Yankees will be responsible to pay out the remainder of Hicks' seven-year, $70 million deal, minus the difference provided by his prospective new team.

Aaron Hicks' story offers a cautionary tale to all

No player is beyond succumbing to Aaron Hicks' fate. Although he was seen as an instrumental part of his team's core just a few short seasons ago, his name has become so associated with underperformance that he may find it hard to find a new team. Either way, the New York Yankees obviously feel that they will be better off without him.