3. They’ve Competed Well Against Other American League Teams
If the Yankees wants to ensure themselves a spot in the 2017 World Series, then there’s only one way they can do that – beat every other competitor in the American League, which is actually something they have done well so far this season. According to ESPN, New York has gone 14-12 against the Boston Red Sox, Houston Astros and Kansas City Royals this year; all teams that are currently projected to be in the postseason.
Not to mention, they are currently battling for the AL East crown as well, since the Red Sox are only 3 games above the Yankees heading into August 7th.
The only team that New York hasn’t played well against this season is the Astros. Heck, who can blame them? No one else has played well against Houston this season either, as the Astros are currently sitting at 71-40, which gives them a 15 game lead over the Seattle Mariners in the AL West.
That being said, the Astros are a team full of young and athletic baseball players, who haven’t have an opportunity to play many meaningful games in October. This could definitely be a factor if this two teams meet up later this season, which means the series could easily swing in the Yankees’ favor.
If Houston starts to slip come October, don’t be surprised when New York continues their American League success and face-off against one of the best teams from the National League in the 2017 World Series.