Yanks Need Rondon To Be Consistent
Photo: Special to the NY Beacon
Randle Has Big Night Against Brooklyn
Photo: Special to the NY Beacon
By Matthew Kennedy
Carlos Rodon was a big acquisition for New York last year, but injuries and a poor attitude plagued his first season on the mound in the Bronx. He will need to be a strong 2nd or 3rd man, depending on Cortes’s situation – especially with the bullpen losing Michael King via the trade with San Diego for Soto (a necessary loss). Increased pressure will be on the starters to pitch more quality starts in close games. The rotation was often unable to keep New York in close games and had a habit of blowing up at the worst times, meaning they gave up runs in big spots instead of during garbage time.
The Yankees have proven they can get out of the AL East with a team constructed the way it is currently. It is the dreaded Houston Astros that put fear and anger into the heart of every Yankees fan. They have what it takes to win on paper, but the Astros have a habit of making it seem like that doesn’t count for anything.
New York made the 2022 ALCS with a similar team, but Houston beat them in 4 after the offense hit an abysmal .150 in the series. It was the 3rd time Houston defeated New York in the ALCS in the last 6 years, and the 4th time in the past 8 they had been eliminated from the playoffs by them.
If New York makes it to the ALCS, they will most likely face Houston again. If the Yanks topple them, the energy and confidence boost that comes from finally beating a team that has battered them for a decade will greatly increase their chances of winning in the next and final series. The overarching message once they make the postseason: BEAT HOUSTON!
