For the first time since 2012, the New York Yankees are not facing the do-or-die wild-card game. Instead, they posted a 103-59 record while winning the American League East, setting up for what many hope is a long playoff run.
The expectations were there from day one for the Bronx Bombers after falling to the Red Sox in the ALDS a year ago, but a plethora of injuries all throughout the season brought significant question marks to whether or not this team could contend. Even with all of the questions, second-year manager Aaron Boone successfully managed his team to buy into the “next man up” mantra while leading New York to their best season since 2009.