In the series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday evening, the New York Yankees learned that the contest would be postponed due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the Miami Marlins ranks. The Phillies had hosted the Marlins for the three days prior to the Yankees arriving, and despite fumigating the visiting clubhouse, the Bombers elected to stay away based on the 11 new cases reported.
Major League Baseball held a meeting after discovering the positive tests, indicating that the season would not be held back, and they would find a way to move forward. The Marlins now have 40% of their active roster with the virus, and they have since begun self-quarantining to await the outcomes of more results. Considering the Yankees and Phillies postponed their Monday contest, new reports indicated that they will also miss Tuesday evenings game.
Heard the #Yankees are leavvng Philadelphia early this afternoon to head back to NY. They are going to practice at Yankee Stadium tonight
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) July 28, 2020
It is possible that the entire series could be missed, which would force the Yankees to wait until August 1 when they face off against the Boston Red Sox. They could always tack on the extra games to the end of the season, utilizing doubleheaders. However, the fatigue factor for both teams would undoubtedly play a part in their postseason hopes.
A new report from The Athletic states that four additional Marlins players have tested positive, which will undoubtedly force them out for several weeks.
Marlins have had four additional players test positive, sources tell The Athletic.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 28, 2020
Utilizing a taxi squad full of reserve players seems like the most logical result, which significantly dampens their chances at a playoff appearance. Even with a massive asterisk over the 2020 season, the league cannot afford to lose any more revenue. I don’t expect the Yankees to play against the Phillies over the next few days, as their series against the Red Sox seems like the most viable option to return to play.
In the meantime, the Yankees Will return to the Bronx to begin practicing and remaining in form.