UPDATE: The New York Yankees have wrapped up a grueling 12-game series against four American League playoff contenders, finishing with a solid 7-5 record. This stretch included a crucial series victory against the Boston Red Sox, with the Yankees departing Fenway Park on Sunday after a loss but feeling optimistic about their playoff positioning.
As the Yankees head to face the Minnesota Twins tomorrow, the stakes are high. Manager Aaron Boone shared insights into managing the pressure, revealing, “Melatonin makes sure it doesn’t keep me up.” The Yankees now hold the top wild-card spot, bolstered by their performance against playoff-bound teams like the Houston Astros and Toronto Blue Jays.
With the postseason rapidly approaching, the Yankees are set to face teams with losing records in their remaining games. This includes three games against the Twins, three against the Chicago White Sox, and seven against the Baltimore Orioles. They have performed well against underperforming teams, boasting a record of 38-23 against teams below .500 this season.
Amidst the excitement, Jazz Chisholm Jr. boldly claimed, “We’re the best team in the league,” emphasizing their relentless approach as they gear up for October.
Here are the top five takeaways from the Yankees’ recent stretch:
1. Aaron Judge’s Risky Return: The Yankees are cautiously managing Aaron Judge‘s return from a flexor strain in his right arm. General manager Brian Cashman indicated that Judge’s recovery would typically warrant more rehab time, but the playoff race necessitated his return. Judge has yet to throw at full strength, but he’s already made a significant impact, hitting five home runs in the last seven games.
2. Anthony Volpe’s Role in Question: Rookie Anthony Volpe has been sidelined for five games due to shoulder issues, with Jose Caballero stepping in as the starting shortstop. Boone’s decision to rotate players comes as the Yankees reassess Volpe’s role heading into the postseason.
3. Bednar Emerges as Closer: The Yankees have named David Bednar as their closer, while other bullpen roles remain fluid. After a rough patch against the Detroit Tigers, the bullpen tightened up, allowing just four earned runs over the last four games, signaling potential for stability.
4. Elite Starting Rotation: The Yankees’ starting rotation has remained strong despite injuries to key players like Gerrit Cole. Since August 9, they lead the majors with a 2.92 ERA, showcasing depth and resilience as they prepare for the final stretch of the season.
5. The Martian on the Bench: Jasson Dominguez, once a rising star, has found himself benched as Cody Bellinger and Trent Grisham seize playing time. Boone acknowledges Dominguez’s potential but emphasizes the need for reliability in the lineup as the playoffs approach.
The Yankees’ next matchup against the Twins is set for tomorrow, September 25, 2023. All eyes will be on Judge and the team as they strive to solidify their postseason bid. Fans eagerly await to see if the Yankees can continue their momentum and prove they are indeed the best in the American League.
Stay tuned for updates as the Yankees push towards October glory!