Despite being without star slugger Aaron Judge for more than three months, the New York Yankees are back in the playoffs for the third straight year. Following the Toronto Blue Jays’ loss to the Detroit Tigers, the Yankees clinched a postseason berth as they seek their first World Series title since 2009. New York also beat the Minnesota Twins on Monday. When the Yankees clinched Monday, the New York Mets were eliminated from playoff contention. Here’s a look at the updated playoff picture and standings after New York punched its playoff berth. The captain finally returned to the lineup on September 8 against the Colorado Rockies, giving New York some much-needed firepower for the final stretch of the season. During the absence of the three-time American League MVP, the Yankees stayed afloat with a 45-39 record over the next three months. While several hitters posted numbers below league average, a few bright spots saved New York’s season. Third-year slugger Ben Rice has enjoyed a breakout season, ranking seventh in the majors with 38 home runs. The acquisition of Luis García Jr. at the trade deadline added even more power to the lineup. Rookie shortstop George Lombard Jr. showed the makings of a future superstar when he was called up to the majors in early August. However, it has been the Yankees’ pitching that has kept them competitive all year. New York leads the MLB with a collective ERA of 3.24, with American League Cy Young favorite Cam Schlittler leading a strong team that also includes Max Fried, Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon. Still, the Yankees will need consistent production from their hitters if they hope to avoid continued postseason disappointment. New York made its first World Series appearance since 2009 two years ago, only to lose to the Los Angeles Dodgers in five games. Last season, the team lost to the Toronto Blue Jays in the ALDS. If Judge can return to his MVP form while New York’s pitching staff remains dominant, the Yankees will have a great chance to return to the Fall Classic and correct the mistakes of recent years.
