After securing the American League’s top record, the New York Yankees find themselves tied 1-1 with the Kansas City Royals in their postseason series. A thrilling 6-5 Game 1 victory gave way to a disappointing 4-2 loss in Game 2 at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees’ sluggish start has raised concerns. Their typically potent offense has stagnated, starting pitching has been uncharacteristically erratic, and their star player has struggled. However, panic isn’t warranted – yet. Amidst the struggles, several positives have emerged, providing a foundation for optimism.
3 Crucial Steps for the Yankees to Reach the ALCS
The Dawg is Back!
It’s no secret that Alex Verdugo‘s first (and perhaps only) season in pinstripes hasn’t gone too well. The left fielder held himself accountable following Saturday’s win, after being named the starting left fielder just a few days prior.
“Fans booing me, fans getting on me, I understand it. I was booing myself too…You can make up for a lot of things in the playoffs.”
This mentality already seems to be paying off for the 28-year-old, who recorded an RBI single that ended up being the game-winning hit in Game 1. But even when Verdugo wasn’t producing with the bat, he earned a mainstay in the lineup because of his spectacular defense.
Dugie’s defense was on display tonight 🐶 pic.twitter.com/YvWFueaOtb
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) October 6, 2024
Starters Must Step Up
The Yankees’ bullpen has pitched 9 1/3 innings through the first two games, reflecting the outings of the first two starters. Gerrit Cole had an uncharacteristic but passable outing in the opening game, giving up 3 earned runs over 5 innings. Rodon, on the other hand, gave up four runs in the fourth inning of Game 2 that the Yankees weren’t able to recover from. Getting deep into games is vital for both starters and the bullpen in the postseason, and neither starter was able to do that.
The Captain Has to Rally
Main Photo: © Brad Penner-Imagn Images