A year ago, the New York Yankees found themselves out of playoff contention just a week before the season ended, breaking their streak of six consecutive postseason appearances. Reflecting on that experience makes this year’s playoff berth feel even more rewarding.
Manager Aaron Boone remarked, “We’ve faced a lot this year. This is just the first step, but it’s a significant one. We’re in the dance.”
The Yankees secured their spot in the 2024 playoffs with a 2-1 victory over the Seattle Mariners in 10 innings on Wednesday night. Nestor Cortes, who threw six scoreless innings, noted that the team’s disappointment from last season fuels their drive as they head into October.
“Last year was tough for us, missing the playoffs,” Cortes said, celebrating with teammates in the clubhouse. “Our goal coming into spring training was clear: make the playoffs, and now we’re here. The ultimate goal is to win the World Series.”
Currently, the Yankees hold the best record in the American League at 89-63 and are five games ahead of the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East, with 10 games remaining. This win guarantees them at least a wild card spot.
This marks the franchise’s 59th postseason appearance, but the Yankees aim to end their World Series drought, which dates back to 2009 when they secured their 27th title.
Boone attributed their success to better health, a renewed focus among players, and overall improvement. “Last year we weren’t a great team; this group has a chance to do something special,” he said.
After a tough season plagued by injuries, the Yankees were eliminated from playoff contention on September 24 last year. They had not missed the postseason since 2016, when Aaron Judge was just starting his career.
Now, with Judge in the running for the MVP and joined by star hitter Juan Soto, the Yankees are poised for a deep playoff run. “It’s exciting to return after last year’s disappointment,” Judge stated. “Our goal was to make the playoffs and compete for the World Series.”
As they enter the final stretch, the Yankees are focused on winning the AL East. Recent struggles from the Orioles have created some breathing room in the division, easing the pressure ahead of next week’s critical three-game series between the two teams in New York.
“We want to win the division,” Soto emphasized. “We’re concentrating on that and aiming to finish the season strong.”
Soto’s contributions have been vital to the Yankees’ return to the playoffs, complementing Judge’s impressive season of 53 home runs and 136 RBIs.
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