Blue Jays AL East Recap: Jays limp out of the break

Jul 15, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons (5) talks to umpire Paul Emmel (50) in the game against the Oakland Athletics in the eighth inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 15, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons (5) talks to umpire Paul Emmel (50) in the game against the Oakland Athletics in the eighth inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Yankees remain average

New York Yankees: 45-46

It has been quite a few weeks since the Yankees have found themselves solidly above average. This was not one of those weeks.

The Yankees took a series loss against the rival Red Sox and begin the week with a three game set against the division leading Orioles. The Yankees desperately needed to come out of the break swinging, and they have so far failed to do that. Despite cracking Red Sox ace David Price, the Yankees sit 8.5 games outside of first, and trail six other teams for the American League’s second Wild Card spot.

The Yankees possess many sought-after bullpen arms, and if they cannot capitalize on the “all or nothing” stakes of the upcoming series, they could see their season slip away.

That is not necessarily bad for the Yankees as they can flip impending free agent Aroldis Chapman for an asset, and then still potentially land him in the off season.

Final Takeaway:

The Yankees have plenty of options for their future, but their present situation is at stake. Despite the brilliance they sometimes showed in the Spring, that has faded away to a team that is struggling to stay at .500. These next two weeks will be make or break for them.

Next: Tampa Bay looking to rebuild