Blue Jays AL East Recap: Jays Stumble into the All Star Break

Yankees Looking to Regroup
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The Yankees stumbled into the ASG and out of June. After reigning the East for the better part of the season, they were dethroned last month. The Yankees are now 3.5 games outside of first, but hold the top overall WC spot. They’ll get a perfect opportunity to chip away when they play Boston for four games after the break. After that, they’ll have to face off against some teams gunning for the WC.

The Yankees have plenty on display this week. Both Aaron Judge and Gary Sanchez will compete in the Home Run Derby (*Judge was crowned the derby champ after this piece was submitted). Afterwards, they join Dellin Betances, Luis Severino, and Starlin Castro in the ASG.

New York has stumbled in recent weeks. Their rotation has been hit and miss, causing problems for their offense and bullpen. Their bullpen has some powerful arms in it, but is often weakened by the work load they inherit. As such another starter would slot in nicely with Masahiro Tanaka and Severino atop the order. With a stocked farm system, they have the depth to land themselves the best arms on the market. Their offense, however, is also to blame. Despite Aaron Judge’s unprecedented first half, their offense as a whole has slowed down. MLB pitching seems to have adjusted to the potency of the Yankees’ young hitters. If they can make the changes necessary, they can help New York take the lead back.

Final Takeaway:
The Yankees get a chance to breathe and catch their breath. Allowing them to focus, and get ready to contend for first place again.