The Toronto Blue Jays aim to further solidify their playoff position as they host the New York Yankees in the opening game of a crucial three-game series on Tuesday night. The Blue Jays (87-69) are coming off a successful 4-2 road trip that included two important wins against the Yankees, placing them in a favorable position in the American League wild card race.
While the Yankees (79-77) were eliminated from playoff contention on Sunday, they demonstrated resilience by bouncing back with a 6-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday, closing out their home schedule. Manager Aaron Boone’s contract runs through 2024, but his future remains uncertain.
Boone commented on his situation, stating, “I don’t worry about it. It’s out of my hands. I’m completely comfortable with who I am and the things I can control. In my mind, I’m doing everything to head into the offseason prepared to put us in a better position to try and compete for a championship. That’s what the goal is, and until they take that away, that’s my focus.”
The Blue Jays had a day off on Monday, giving them an opportunity to reflect on their recent performance. They were delighted with their 9-5 win over the Tampa Bay Rays in a pivotal three-game series that showcased their determination and balanced approach to the game.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised his team’s effort, stating, “This was an awesome road trip. Coming off a sweep at home, then two division teams who are really tough. These guys played their (butts) off. Yeah, (Saturday) was a tough one, but this was about as good an outcome other than 6-0. I love the way they’re going about it, everything from offense to defense to pitching.”
Right-hander Kevin Gausman (12-9, 3.29 ERA) is set to take the mound for the Blue Jays on Tuesday. Gausman has faced the Yankees three times this season, posting a 2-0 record while allowing just three runs (two earned) over 20 innings. In his career, he holds a 10-7 record with a 3.15 ERA in 30 appearances (24 starts) against New York.
Gausman’s last outing was an impressive one against the Yankees, as he pitched six shutout innings and recorded 10 strikeouts while conceding only three hits and three walks.
The Yankees will counter with right-hander Michael King (4-7, 2.66 ERA), who faced the Blue Jays in his last start. King surrendered just one run on five hits and struck out an impressive 13 batters in seven innings, although he took the loss.
In 17 career appearances (three starts) against Toronto, King has compiled a 2-2 record with a 3.35 ERA.
As the Blue Jays seek to secure their playoff spot, and the Yankees look to finish the season on a positive note, this series promises to be a pivotal showdown with potential playoff implications.
