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Yankees’ sudden batting slump sets off conflicting theories

ARLINGTON, Texas — Was it a two-game blip thanks to Charlie Morton’s curveball and the endless parade of Rays relievers used in favorable matchups?

Or is it something more serious concerning the Yankees hitters, as they head into the ALDS, which starts a week from Friday in The Bronx, with the Twins the likely opponent in the best-of-five series?

In losses to the Rays on Tuesday and Wednesday at Tropicana Field, the Yankees scored one run in 21 innings and six of their eight hits were singles.

A lot of that had to do with Morton, who didn’t allow a hit until DJ LeMahieu’s two-out single in sixth inning of a 4-0 loss Wednesday night and struck out nine with a curveball the Yankees often chased out of the zone.