Yankees Breakdown: Creating Separation

While the Bronx Bombers concluded the first half of the season on a high note, the second half began in similar style, as the Yankees have won three straight series since the All-Star break, winning eight of their last ten games. New York has not lost a series since traveling to Anaheim in late-June, and after sweeping the crafty Orioles last week, the Yankees made greater separation in the American League East standings, creating a comfortable amount of space among their division rivals. In the midst of a ten-game road trip, New York starts a four-game set in Texas tonight, concluding travel on the south side of Chicago this weekend. 

Here's a breakdown of last week's games. 

It's A-Rod's World- We're Just Living In It

There's no need to reiterate the fact that Alex Rodriguez has been an integral part to the Yankees' success, but when looking closer at the numbers, his contributions are confounding. Of New York's 96 games played so far, Rodriguez has been on the lineup card 90 times, the most appearances he has had since the 2012 season. Currently, A-Rod leads the team in on-base percentage (.375), which also places 14th amongst the League leaders. Rodriguez undoubtedly made his presence felt Saturday night in Minnesota, as the veteran belted three home runs in the Yankees' 8-run comeback win. It was the third time Rodriguez had reached the plateau in pinstripes, and the first since tallying three homers and five RBI against Kansas City in 2010. Aside from his efforts at the plate, A-Rod has adapted to a more humble approach to the game, making him a favorite in the clubhouse. When placed in front of the microphone, Rodriguez has deflected personal questions, and does not hesitate to mention the game's key contributors. With 23 home runs posted this year, he is on pace to finish with 35 home runs, the most he's hit since 2008. And one more thing: Rodriguez celebrates his 40th birthday today, defying all odds. 

Pitching Is Needed, But Via The Trade?

It depends on what is pragmatic to General Manager Brian Cashman. Yankee starters this season have a combined 4.26 ERA, the 10th-highest in baseball, while opponents have hit .272, the 5th-highest batting average against.  Starting arms have been hit hard, and the strikeout numbers have been sub-par, as New York is tied for 15th with Milwaukee at 464 total K's.  The Yankees are in need of a solid starter to assist the back end of the rotation, but at what cost? According to CBS' Jon Heyman, Yankee executives have placed four prospects on the 'untouchable list': outfielder Aaron Judge, infielders Greg Bird and Jorge Mateo, and pitcher Luis Severino. Of the four, Severino has received the most attention, as the 21-year old flame-thrower has posted a stellar 6-0 record with a 2.11 ERA in Triple-A Scranton. Although manager Joe Girardi has insisted that Severino will not see the Bronx until September call ups, Severino's talents may be needed come this weekend, for if the Yankees do shop for a lower-tier starter such as Mike Leake or Mat Latos, a potential trade candidate could be a reliever such as Adam Warren.  If that is the case, then the Yankees will have to add depth to their bullpen, and Severino may be the solution to that circumstance.  As of now, it appears that New York will stand pat with the roster they have. But don't be fooled- even when it does not seem possible, the Yankees are always in talks for big brand names, and not one star or top-prospect is really "untouchable" this week.  



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