The New York Yankees playoff spot is more or less certain as they are seated at the top of AL-East division. However, the division race is highly competitive due to fierce competition from defending champion Baltimore Orioles. The latter are trailing 0.5 games behind at the second spot in the competitive division.
That being said, the New York Yankees will be required to chalk out a postseason plan sooner than later, especially the rotation. A five-man rotation is generally not practised in playoffs. Hence, the Bombers, currently possessing a six-man rotation, will likely have to settle for only three starting pitchers in October.
MLB Insider Expects Marcus Stroman To Miss Playoffs!
The New York Yankees signed Marcus Stroman earlier this off-season in a two-year deal with an option for third year. He has been a constant presence in the rotation. But Marcus has been highly consistent in his starts. Since June 1, Stroman has a 5.35 ERA with 54 strikeouts, 31 walks and a 1.62 WHIP across 79 innings. Not only that, the Yanks went 9-7 in the games he pitched this year. Amongst qualified pitches, Stroman’s strikeout rate (17%) is the third worst. Hence, amid underwhelming numbers, the Yanks are likely to snub him off the playoff rotation, said Chris Kirschner. “If the Yankees win the division, Stroman could find himself off the roster for the first round. He does not have elite stuff to come out of the bullpen,” he said.
Notably, Marcus Stroman has said time and again that he is a process- and routine-oriented pitcher. Hence, the bullpen role wouldn’t necessarily suit him. Meanwhile, Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon and Luis Gil appear favourites to clinch playoff spots. The trio has been consistent despite injury issues and has good command over stuff to bear the postseason pressure. Nestor Cortes is also an option. However, his story is remotely similar to that of Marcus Stroman, as inconsistency is his biggest enemy. On the other hand, Clarke Schmidt, who recently came off IL, is also a contender for playoffs. However, his lack of playing time remains an issue, as he pitched only 12 starts this year. Overall, the New York Yankees seem poised to prioritize recent form, flexibility, and overall team combination as they craft their roster for a deep playoff run.
Yankees’ Closer Situation To Evolve During Playoffs
Meanwhile, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone got creative with the closing spot after Clay Holmes blew up MLB’s high 11th save last week. Luke Weaver was given the ball in the ninth inning, and he recorded his career-first save for the Yanks in his first opportunity.
As far as the postseason is concerned, the New York Yankees will keep the closing situation fluid. Clay Holmes’ job isn’t guaranteed, and neither is Luke Weavers. “I’m gonna let that evolve,” Aaron Boone said on his postseason plans. Notably, the Yanks traditionally have settled for only closer in playoffs. But this year’s approach could witness a shift.
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