The New York Yankees were already in danger of missing out on the postseason this year. They have languished around .500, currently sitting in fourth place eight games out of first in the AL East. Although their chances are better when it comes to capturing one of the Wild Card berths, at 4.5 games out, that is not a given.
Those factors made this weekend’s series against the Red Sox that much more important. Winning the series would allow New York to draw closer in the chase for the division. However, if that is to happen, they will need to do so without several key players.
There is optimism — and that optimism, as is the case with all COVID outbreaks, is cautious. All six of the Yankees’ cases have now been confirmed, which means Aaron Judge, Gio Urshela, Kyle Higashioka, Jonathan Loaisiga, Nestor Cortes Jr. and Wandy Peralta would go on COVID IL.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 16, 2021
New York Yankees may have obstacle too big to overcome
These positives cases are certainly a major blow to the Yankees’ hopes. Aaron Judge has been the Yankees’ best hitter this season, while Urshela has been a steady part of the lineup. Kyle Higashioka has been a key piece as the backup catcher, cutting into Gary Sanchez‘s playing time this season.
The losses on the pitching side also hurt, but in different ways. Nestor Cortes Jr., and his moustache, had become a lifesaver in the bullpen, and was about to be put into the rotation. Jonathan Loaisiga was already on the Injured List, but he had stepped in as a temporary option in the ninth inning while Aroldis Chapman struggled. Wandy Peralta has not been nearly as effective as Cortes or Loaisiga, but he has been an active part of the relief corps.
Obviously, the hope is that this group returns to action as soon as possible. However, depending on when that happens, it could be too late. The Yankees have a pair of four game series against the Red Sox, with a two game set against the Phillies sandwiched in between. Their plans to be buyers at the trade deadline may need to change.
In the end, this may end up saving the Yankees from themselves. Their push to contend, and desire to keep themselves relevant against a resurgent Mets team, could push them towards moves that would not be in their best interest going forward.
Several key members of the New York Yankees are sidelined due to positive COVID tests. This could be the final nail in their 2021 coffin.