The New York Yankees are on the brink of clinching the AL East, needing just one more victory or an Orioles loss to secure the division title. With the Yankees boasting a 92-65 record, they've already secured a postseason berth, but the team's aspirations extend beyond just making the playoffs. Clinching the AL East would not only validate their regular season performance but also afford them a more favorable seeding come October.
Nestor Cortes sidelined
The Yankees' road to the playoffs, however, has hit a bump with the temporary loss of one of their key pitchers. Left-hander Nestor Cortes has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a flexor strain and will be unavailable until October 5, the date of Game 2 of the ALDS. This comes at a crucial time as the Yankees were nearly at full strength on the mound, barring Jonathan Loáisiga's absence.
Cortes' absence is significant. At 29, he leads the team in starts with 31 and has pitched 174 1/3 innings, showcasing his durability and reliability throughout the season. His ERA stands at 3.77, with a 3.83 FIP and a 3.65 xERA, reflecting a consistent performance. Cortes recently demonstrated his value by pitching 4 1/3 hitless innings to secure a save, underlining his importance in high-pressure situations.
Next man up: Cody Poteet
With Cortes out, the Yankees have called up Cody Poteet to fill the void. Poteet is stepping into the role of the long man in the bullpen, a role that carries its own set of challenges and expectations. This move is a strategic one, aimed at maintaining the bullpen's depth and resilience as the Yankees navigate this pivotal period.
Additionally, Marcus Stroman will rejoin the rotation to start Wednesday's game, ensuring that the team continues to have a strong starting presence on the mound. The roster adjustment underscores the Yankees' depth, as they had six starters for five rotation spots before Cortes' injury, providing a glimpse into the team's robustness.
Eyes on the prize
Despite this setback, the Yankees are focused on securing the AL East crown. Losing to the Orioles 5-3 on Tuesday delayed their coronation but has not dampened their resolve. The upcoming three-game set against the Pittsburgh Pirates this weekend offers a prime opportunity to clinch the division title, either by winning one of their own games or hoping for another Orioles loss.
These games are crucial not just for the standings but also for maintaining momentum heading into the postseason. With the Yankees inching closer to full strength, the team's performance without Cortes will be closely watched. Players cannot be added to a postseason roster mid-series unless replacing an injured player, making every decision leading up to the playoffs critical.
The Yankees' journey through the final stretch of the regular season is a testament to their depth and resilience. With Cortes expected to return for Game 2 of the ALDS, the team is aiming to navigate this period with tactical acumen and fortitude. Their eyes are firmly set on not just clinching the AL East but also making a deep playoff run once their roster is fully restored.
The playoff picture
Securing the division would mean more than just a title; it would set the stage for the Yankees' postseason journey, providing a more favorable path through the playoffs. The games against the Orioles and the Pirates are thus pivotal, not just for the immediate goal but for the broader aspirations the team harbors.
As the postseason looms, the Yankees' ability to adapt and strategize will be under the spotlight. The loss of Nestor Cortes, albeit temporary, serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball. However, with a strong lineup and a deep bullpen, the Yankees are well-equipped to handle the challenges ahead and push further into October, embodying the resilience and grit that define championship teams.