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It's been one of those weeks in Yankees land, a week that makes you feel pretty confident come October. The pitchers showed longevity, while the offense showed firepower. Everything was falling into the place.
It started with a win over the Brewers. Gerrit Cole tossed 8 strikeouts, while the offense batted around 15 hits. Rizzo returned to the lineup and cranked a homer. The outfielders of the past and future in Hicks and Cabrera both joined the party. Oh, and Aaron Judge decided to elevate the crowd and hit homers 58 and 59 in a 12-8 win. It was much needed to get back on track after dropping the two prior to Milwaukee.
On Tuesday, Harrison Bader made his well awaited Yankees debut, and it didn't disappoint. 3 RBI's and stellar defense, it was almost spoiled by an 8-4 loss. Then the bottom of the ninth came along. Aaron Judge, came up to the plate in a meaningless at bat, and did the unthinkable in that moment. Make history, and start a rally.
First time since Bonds in 2001 did a player hit 60. Aaron Judge took a chance on himself instead of signing a contract, and it's paying dividends. But back to the game, the Yanks were still down. I never understand why this team loses to Oakland and Pittsburgh, but c'est la vie. Stanton was up with the bases loaded down 3. Then this happened.
I love this game, I truly do. The script writes itself sometimes. Last night's matchup was much more relaxing to say the least. Sevy came back from the IL and pitched a gem. 5 innings, 2 hits, 6k's, 1 ER. I'll take it and welcome back. I cannot wait to see him in the playoff rotation. The offense though was the show stealer. How about an Oswaldo Cabrera Grand Slam and two homers from Gleyber Torres... in the same inning?!
That's the New York Yankees, baby! History wasn't made for Judge, but it's bound to happen very very very soon. So not only will he have this year's home run title, and a piece of history in breaking Roger Maris's record of 61, but he's also in line for the batting title, and potentially the triple crown. Not to mention the MVP (move over Ohtani). We are witnessing a masterclass in baseball, and historic feat for the league, and a hall of fame worthy season from Aaron Judge. That's worthy of a shirt, don't you think?
What would make it sweeter is obviously a World Series. The magic number is now 8, and the road to 100 wins comes down to this.
After sweeping Boston but only winning one against the Brew Crew, the Yankees have four series to win 10 games. Reinforcements are coming and the death star is forming. Judge is coming in hot, and the Yankees are team for destiny. All we can do is sit and watch history unfold.