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New York Yankees: Top Five things that will keep the Yanks atop the AL East

By John Franklin

Jun 8, 2017; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez (24) and New York Yankees second baseman Starlin Castro (14) react after scoring in the fifth inning on home run by Sanchez at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 8, 2017; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez (24) and New York Yankees second baseman Starlin Castro (14) react after scoring in the fifth inning on home run by Sanchez at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Yankees
May 19, 2017; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Luis Severino (40) throws a pitch during the third inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Number Three: Unexpected Heroes

This whole first half of the season defines the term “unexpected”.

No one thought the Yankees would be much of a threat in the AL East, but then players popped up left and right to prove them wrong.

It all started with the progression Aaron Judge as the power bat of the Yankee lineup. He completely readjusted his swing from last season, making it more crouched and open.

His abilities are ridiculous at his size. He has speed, a quick bat, and he is an unbelievable fielder. He has an opportunity to win Rookie of the Year, and a Gold Glove this season.

The real surprises came out of the starting rotation.

If someone said to me Masahiro Tanaka would be struggling so mightily this season, I’d say the Yankees were bound to be in the basement. Thanks to the unexpected success of CC Sabathia and Luis Severino, the Yankees are staying right on top of the division.

If these guys can keep it up, and get some help from more unexpected heroes, then it’ll be cake to stay atop the AL East until the All-Start break.

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