TheNew York Yankeeshave been a big mystery in 2015, and have been nearly impossible to predict. They are capable of sweeping some of baseball’s top teams, but then lose two of three to some of baseball’s worst teams.
Trying to predict the Yankees in 2015 has been difficult, but nonetheless, they are sitting at 48-40 with a 3.5 game lead in their division. Now that we’ve hit the All Star break, let’s take a look at what we’ve learned from this team so far.
- They are serious contenders for the AL East title.
Right now, the Yanks are in the top spot in the AL East, but the entire division is separated by 6.5 games. If one team slips up and another goes on a run, then the whole standings could dramatically change. It’s been a much more competitive division than we might have expected, but Yankee fans have nothing to complain about.
- Their pitching is better than we thought.
In the offseason, we all assumed that the pitching staff was full of question marks. WouldC.C. Sabathiabe awful? WillMasahiro Tanaka‘s arm blow out? WillIvan Novareturn before the team falls out of contention? Who’s the fifth starter? These questions have been answered to some extent so far, and the net result is that the Yankees are still on top of the division, in spite of their woes. Consistent hitting would have given the Yankees a larger cushion in the AL East, but it’s still safe to say that their hitting has been worse than their pitching. However, the back-end of the bullpen has been lights out, withDellin Betancespicking up where he left off last year andAndrew Millerdoing a fine job replacingDavid Robertson.Chasen Shrevehas been a nice acquisition for the team whileAdam Warrendid well starting and in relief. For the second half, the health of the staff is something to keep an eye on.
More on Empire Writes Back:2 Yankees in the All Star Game
Jul 5, 2015; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees designated hitter Alex Rodriguez (13) is congratulated by first baseman Mark Teixeira (25) after hitting a solo home run in the sixth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports
- They rely heavily on the home run.
When the Yankees hit a home run in a game, it’s likely that they have a good chance of winning. When the power isn’t there, they will probably lose. Spearheaded byMark Teixeira‘s 22 long balls andAlex Rodriguez‘s 18 home runs, the team is on pace to shatter last season’s home run totals. TheJacoby Ellsbury–Brett Gardner1-2 punch at the beginning of the lineup gives you a good chance that the home runs aren’t solo shots.
- The prospects can have a big impact in the second half.
Before getting injured, young outfieldersSlade HeathcottandMason Williamshad a noticeable effect in the Yankee lineup. They showed flashes that the team would love to see down the stretch and into the playoffs (if they get there). Add in new call-upRob Refsnyderplaying second base, and the Yankees have an opportunity to integrate youth into their aging roster. The energy the youth brings the team will go beyond the field, and could translate into a strong second half push.
If the Yankees continue to take care of business, they have a strong chance of getting into the playoffs as the AL East winners. Once playoff time begins, anything is possible, and I wouldn’t count out the Yankees. After all, this team will always surprise you when you least expect it.
Next: Who is the best Yankee of all-time?
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