Shake off the division, Yankees, and turn toward a more positive thought: While you are flawed, your new rivals are, too, and it’s not as crazy as it seems to imagine you playing a few weeks into October.
The homestand that began with a 3-2 win over the White Sox on Thursday marked the first day after the American League East race ended. It was a moment of transition for the team, despite Joe Girardi’s protestations.
“Well, I still think it’s too early because nothing’s been decided,” the manager said, when asked if he would begin to set his rotation for the wild card game.