Yankees’ postseason takeaways: Soto’s impact, Judge’s leadership, and Boone’s uncertain future

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The New York Yankees are taking full advantage of their hard-earned rest after clinching everything in the American League during the regular season. Starting Tuesday afternoon, they will conduct a four-day mini-camp leading up to their postseason opener, a crucial stretch aimed at balancing rest with keeping their edge sharp. The Yankees are set to host the AL Division Series opener on Saturday, facing either the Baltimore Orioles or Kansas City Royals.

“It’s kind of like another All-Star break,” said Alex Verdugo. “We’ve just got to kind of make sure our workouts are keeping the same energy, having some intensity to it.”

The Yankees (94-68) boast the AL’s best record, granting them home-field advantage throughout the league playoffs. Their confidence is palpable, with right-hander Clarke Schmidt boldly stating, “I personally think we’re the best team in baseball. I think we’re going to set out to try to prove that this postseason.”

Yankees’ postseason takeaways

1. Mini-camp to keep momentum rolling

The four-day mini-camp gives the Yankees a chance to maintain momentum and avoid losing their competitive rhythm before the ALDS. For a team laden with veterans, this mini-camp is a welcome reset. Alex Verdugo likened it to an extended All-Star break but emphasized the importance of intensity during workouts to ensure they enter Saturday’s game ready to perform at a high level.

2. Juan Soto’s impact cannot be overstated

Juan Soto‘s contributions have been nothing short of phenomenal, with a career-high 41 home runs and a 180 wRC+ this season. His offensive impact has been instrumental in helping the Yankees reach the postseason, and retaining Soto is crucial for keeping their lineup among the league’s elite. As the Yankees head into the ALDS, Soto’s bat will be a key factor in their quest for a championship.

3. Aaron Judge leads the way

Aaron Judge has put together another MVP-caliber season, leading the league in home runs (58), RBIs (144), and walks (133). Despite moving to a new position to make room for Soto, Judge played 157 games, providing stability and leadership. His postseason performance will be under the microscope as the Yankees seek to build on their regular-season success.

4. Schmidt likely for Game 3 start

With only three starters needed for the ALDS, Clarke Schmidt looks set to get the nod for Game 3. Despite struggling in his last outing against Pittsburgh, Schmidt has been solid in his five September starts since returning from the IL. Manager Aaron Boone has hinted that Carlos Rodon might start Game 3 on the road, with Gerrit Cole lined up for Games 1 and 4 if necessary, providing a formidable rotation for the Yankees in this crucial series.

5. Postseason lineup questions

The Yankees’ postseason roster still has some uncertainties, particularly with injuries affecting their lineup. Anthony Rizzo‘s absence due to fractures in his fingers has left the Yankees to decide between starting rookie Ben Rice or utility player Oswaldo Cabrera at first base.

Meanwhile, the outfield presents a choice between Jasson Dominguez’s offensive potential and Alex Verdugo’s defensive reliability. The Yankees will need all hands on deck, and Boone’s roster decisions could be key to advancing deep into the postseason.

Boone’s future hinges on postseason performance

Despite leading the Yankees to a 94-win season and clinching home-field advantage in the AL, Aaron Boone’s future remains uncertain. ESPN recently included Boone on its list of managers who could face the hot seat ahead of the 2025 season. Boone may have guided the Yankees back to the top of the AL East, but as Patrick Andres of Sports Illustrated noted, simply winning regular-season games won’t be enough—Boone needs to lead the Yankees deep into October.

“The New York Yankees are on pace to win 94 games this year after their 2023 slog, but it’s clear Boone needs to at least flirt with the team’s first pennant in 15 years this October,” Andres wrote. With the New York Mets also threatening to make waves this fall, Boone’s ability to get the Yankees within striking distance of their 28th World Series title is crucial not only for the team’s championship aspirations but also for his own job security.

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic echoed these sentiments, pointing out that Boone’s future depends on postseason results, and that his tactical decisions—particularly bullpen management—will be under scrutiny. Luke Weaver has stepped into the closer role, but Boone will need to handle high-leverage situations effectively, especially with Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon anchoring the rotation.

As they head into Saturday’s ALDS opener, the Yankees are optimistic and determined to prove that they are the best team in baseball. With key veterans ready to lead and a deep roster, they aim to make a deep run and capture their 28th World Series title.

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