Yankees defeat Angels, look for more against Astros

The Yankees take two of three from the Angels this weekend in the Bronx, losing only one of six games against them this season.

Despite some sluggish pitching performances in this series, the Yankees were able to capitalize on hits and hold down leads to secure wins. The run differentials in Friday and Sunday’s wins were modest, but quality bullpen performances and several exciting plays led the Bombers to another series victory.

On Friday, Yankees ace Luis Severino did not perform his best, but still pitched a strong game, allowing only one run. His line: 6.0 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 4 BB, 5 K. Gleyber Torres’ 2 RBI, one of which was a solo shot, propelled the Yanks to a narrow 2-1 win. 

Aaron Judge’s outfield performance played a major role in the win, as he continues to show his defensive attributes.

Sonny Gray’s looked dismal during Saturday’s game. His line: 3.2 IP, 7 H, 5 ER, 3 BB, 7 K. He has struggled immensely this season, lacking consistency and confidence on the mound. His inadequate performances and inability to pitch deep into games have been a detriment to the rotation.

Brian Cashman has recognized the pitching struggles and prioritizes improving it, New York Times’ Wallace Matthews reports:

"“To be quite honest, the way this current starting staff is, the 13-man staff is a necessity. Frankly, we need the pitching.”"

Despite back-to-back home runs by Brett Gardner and Judge in the first inning, the Yankees fell short, mostly due to pitching blunders and Mike Trout’s domination in the 11-4 defeat.

On Sunday, Masahiro Tanaka pitched a quality start: 6.0 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 8 K. He allowed a solo shot as the only earned run in his final inning pitched. The bats were quiet, but an Aaron Hicks RBI walk, a Greg Bird RBI HBP, and Miguel Andújar RBI force-out accounted for the runs in the 3-1 victory. 

On Monday, the Yankees begin a three-game series against defending World Series champs, the Houston Astros. This series will prove another challenge to the distinguished Yankees offense.

In Game 1, Domingo Germán (0-2, 5.59 ERA) will face Justin Verlander (6-2, 1.08 ERA). On Tuesday, CC Sabathia (2-1, 3.55 ERA) will battle Charlie Morton (7-0, 2.04 ERA). In the series finale, Severino (7-1, 2.28 ERA) takes the bump against Dallas Keuchel (3-6, 3.39 ERA).

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The pitching match-ups will test the resilience of this team and give more opportunities for starters to showcase their abilities.

Last time the Yankees played in Houston, they took three of four games and shut out the Astros two games in a row.

Run support is absolutely crucial in order to secure wins against this team. Germán and Sabathia are coming off of less-than-ideal outings, so they look to improve in the Bronx.

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Winning this series will be a trial for the Yanks, but if the offense can take advantage of opportunities with men on base, and the pitching can recover, the Yankees could be on their way to another winning streak.