The New York Yankees are gearing up to face off against the Cleveland Indians in the first game of the Wild-Card series on Tuesday evening.
In a pitchers duel, featuring Gerrit Cole and Shane Bieber, both teams have their best on the mound. This is an instant classic given the quality of both arms — the Yankees leading up to their first postseason appearance this season haven’t brewed much optimism.
The Bombers have simply just been from the Bronx, with their inability to spark offensive fire-power on a daily basis. Going into the series, they scored 16 total runs over five games, after posting 46 in three games against the Toronto Blue Jays a few weeks ago.
Owner Hal Steinbrenner had remarks of solace for his team’s performance during the regular season, hoping they can turn it around with exhibition games nearly underway.
“Given the caliber of this team I am disappointed, as they are, that we didn’t win the division. Losing 15 of 20 in a season this short made that a very difficult task,’’ Steinbrenner told The Post on Monday. “Having said that, at this point it is a new beginning. If we play up to our potential, we can defeat any team in baseball. I truly believe that and I know the players do as well.’’
Despite the Yankees finishing the year 33-27 and winning just 11 games away, they have plenty of talent to overcome a strong Cleveland team. The major difference-maker is Cole, though, who hosts a 1.00 ERA with Kyle Higashioka behind the plate.
“I believe Cole will give us the type of strong performance that we envisioned last year when we signed him. One of the many in the years to come,’’ Steinbrenner predicted. “Will be a tough series but I believe we will prevail.’’
If Cole can produce, which he undoubtedly can, the Yankees just need to provide run support. The Indians are a strong hitting team and have only had 59 homers over 60 games. Luke Voit alone has 22 home runs on the season, indicating just how strong this team is when they are playing at their best.