New York Yankees: Yanks hope Opening Day reflects season long success

The New York Yankees started the 2019 season by successfully defending their home turf and providing hope for a championship fall.

This was the 117th opening day to be hosted by the New York Yankees with most being from the original stadium.

It’s only been 10 years since the opening of the current stadium, the Bronx Bombers have only managed to win one World Series title in that span. This fact adds more pressure to this year’s club trying to ensure the Yankees first world title in this decade and 28th overall.

Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Mariano Rivera got the Opening Day festivities started with the ceremonial first pitch. He also spoke with media before the game sharing his thoughts on this season’s team World Series aspirations:

"“It’s time, We’re due. It’s time to get No. 28. I believe in the team. Seeing the guys and the talent we have, it’s enough to win. The question is, ‘Are we hungry enough to win it?’ and I believe they are. We need another championship.”"

The first test came in the form of the very young and rebuilding Baltimore Orioles showcasing a team that Yankees fans didn’t feel were worth the traditional opening day boo’s during roster announcements. The Yankees were heavy favorites in this game as they are to compete for the championship so a convincing win was the only acceptable outcome.

Masahiro Tanaka certainly did his part pitching a productive game before turning over relief duties to a very effective Adam Ottavino. The new Yankees bullpen had the proper debut of what can be possible if the rotation provide quality starts.

The offense was charged by the battle for the starting first baseman job between Luke Voit and Greg Bird. Both players homered in the game but it appears Voit has earned the popularity vote from fans as he continues to receive massive ovations and the always affectionate “LUUUUKE” chant from a sold out Yankees Stadium.

Voit shared his appreciation for the home crowd in his post game interview discussing his former team the St. Louis Cardinals.

"“It is unbelievable. Who would have thought I would be here on Opening Day? I thought I would do it in a Cardinal uniform.”"

The Yankees winning game 1 of 162 with a score of 7-2 wasn’t too big a surprise. It was, however, an early indication of the promise and hope fans have for the team at risk of going a full decade without a title.