The New York Yankees were viewed as a confirmed postseason team following a blazing start to the season. They became the first team in MLB to log 50 wins this season before falling into a vicious cycle of an abysmal losing streak that led to a 58-40 record by the end of first half.
However, with the second half resuming this weekend following the All-Star break, stakes will be higher for the New York Yankees to not only bounce back but also eradicate the infamous second half curse that has been impacting the team’s postseason aspirations for multiple seasons now.
New York Yankees To Resume Second Half With A Chip On The Shoulder
The New York Yankees entered the All-Star break by snapping out of a seven-series losing streak. However, they failed to sweep the Baltimore Orioles in a finale that they had under control until the ninth-inning defensive blowout. Not only that, the Bronx Bombers went 8-18 since the mid-June stretch. However, manager Aaron Boone affirmed that the advantage the team had after a strong start to the season was not lost. “The second half, we’ve got the pen. It’s in our hands, and that’s a result of how we’vewe played in this first half,” Boone said. However, a resurgence is easier said than done. Notably, the franchise has witnessed a trend of a decline in the second half.
In 2022, the New York Yankees went 35-35 record in the second half. But comfortably made it to the playoffs before losing the ALCS to the Houston Astros. Last season, the team plummeted to 33-38 in what turned out to be a disastrous end to an ugly season. And now, the 2024 season appears to be headed in the same direction. However, as Boone said, the Yanks remain in a good position despite the awful stretch. It’s a long season, and the roster will get a significant boost in the second half. Besides injured players’ return, the front office is also expected to get help at the trade deadline. Overall, the Bombers still appear to be a postseason team, given their squad strength and ability to thrive against adversities. A little intent and fire will turn things around drastically in the second half, which will resume this Saturday against the Rays.
Giancarlo Stanton, Anthony Rizzo Eyes Early Return!
Meanwhile, the New York Yankees are likely to get significant boost in the second half of the 2024 MLB season. Designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton’s rehab from a hamstring injury is moving as per the schedule, and he could rejoin the roster before July ends. The Yanks are not mulling a minor-league rehab assignment for now.
Additionally, first baseman Anthony Rizzo, sidelined with an arm fracture, is likely to be reinstated by mid-August. He has yet to resume baseball activities. However, once he gets back on the field, he will ramp up the rehab to ensure an early return. Until then, thriving prospect Ben Rice will continue to be the Yankees regular first baseman and leadoff hitter.
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