Yankees complete first half of season and head into All-Star break

The Yankees reached the midway point of the season with a commendable 62-33 record, currently sitting in second place in the division 4.5 games behind the Red Sox.

On Sunday, the Yankees wrapped up the series against the Cleveland Indians, winning two of four games against the AL rival. The Yankees went 6-5 on the road trip. 

The team finishes the first half of the season with some key improvements to make, but overall three and a half successful months of baseball. Fans can expect eventual changes in the second half of the season.

Undoubtedly, the most substantial issues lie in the starting rotation. Aside from Luis Severino (2.31 ERA) and CC Sabathia (3.51 ERA), pitching performances have been weak. Sonny Gray (5.46 ERA) has been the greatest source of inconsistency. Masahiro Tanaka (4.68 ERA) has also underperformed in addition to a month-long DL stint.

Jordan Montgomery underwent Tommy John surgery at the beginning of the season, allowing rookie Domingo Germán (5.49 ERA) an opportunity to fill his position. The offense often bails out the pitching with sufficient run support; however, the Yankees will need another starter to be adequately prepared for the second half and a postseason run.

One position that has been a question mark since the 2017 season is first base. Greg Bird, intended to be the starting first baseman, began the season on the DL. Neil Walker and Tyler Austin filled his position regularly until Bird’s return at the end of May. Besides a productive May, Walker has not quite hit the mark production-wise. With Bird starting to heat up, though, the team could soon receive greater offensive support from first base. Consistent performance from him is key.

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Following the All-Star break, Gleyber Torres and Gary Sanchez will return to the Yankees from their time on the DL. Torres, who debuted in late April, has been a tremendous addition to the team. The May Rookie of the Month and AL All-Star has a .294 AVG with 15 HR and has shown offensive consistency, playing clean defense as well.

Sanchez, who had a fantastic 2017, has struggled this season (.190/.291/.723). His offensive numbers are not where they need to be. Additionally, subpar defense has led him to have a less-than-ideal 2018. Despite his challenges, Sanchez has shown a tremendous skill set that could further reinforce the lineup. A power bat from him would be a great boost for the Yankees.

Aaron Boone commented on Torres and Sanchez’ roles and how teammates have filled them in their absence, NY Daily News’ Mike Mazzeo reports:

“We’re looking forward to getting Gary and Gleyber back,” Boone said, noting how dynamic they are as players. “That being said we’ve really had guys step up in their absence. I think we’ve more than survived because of the performances from the depth of our roster. Guys have routinely come in and stepped up.”

In a season filled with undeniable ups and downs, the Yankees have been fortunate to receive consistency from several key players. Offensive powerhouse Aaron Judge is hitting .277 with 25 HR and a .394 OBP. His ability to get on base and provide clutch hitting has propelled last season’s success even further this year. Rookie Miguel Andújar has been very impressive with 41 XBH, playing great offensively. He knocked Brandon Drury out of the third base position because of how well he’s performed.

Luis Severino has become one of the best pitchers in the game. His 14-2 record and 144 Ks serve to affirm just how important he’s been this season, indisputably the best pitcher in the rotation. The bullpen has been another strength for the Yanks. Closer Aroldis Chapman (1.35 ERA, 26 SV) has been the frontrunner. Jonathon Holder (1.85 ERA) became an unexpected advantage to the ‘pen. Dellin Betances (2.61 ERA) has overall been a dominant force.

Following the break, players like Aaron Hicks, Brett Gardner, and Giancarlo Stanton look to stay hot. Outfield production has been at its highest.

The team has played good baseball. Collectively, the offense has hit 161 home runs before the break, most in MLB history. They have room for improvement, but the winning percentage speaks for itself. The race for first place against the Red Sox will likely be very close for the duration of the season. However, if the Yankees can improve upon weak points, the team will be even more of a threat. If the second half is as good as the first, the Yanks will be in very good shape for a postseason battle.

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Aside from those partaking in All-Star festivities, the Yankees will have four days off before returning to the Bronx on July 20. German, Gray, and Tanaka will start their respective games. The Yankees look to continue success against the Mets in another Subway Series and start the second half in winning fashion.