Yanks prep for finale vs. Tribe, A-Rod’s reveal
Despite suffering a 5-2 loss 24 hours ago, the Yankees remain in a strong position to win their weekend series vs. the Indians. Yet is the rubber match destined to take a back seat to a major announcement?
New York hosts Cleveland at 1:05 p.m. ET, with oddsmakers at online sports book Bovada.lv leaning toward Terry Francona’s gang. Conversely, the Bronx Bombers represent underdogs. The over/under run total rests at eight.
This afternoon’s Masahiro Tanaka-Carlos Carrasco showdown, however, could ultimately play second fiddle to a press conference. General manager Brian Cashman, skipper Joe Girardi and designated hitter Alex Rodriguez will hold court at Yankee Stadium in the morning. Rumors are swirling that the 14-time All-Star, who sits on the precipice of 700 career homers, may retire effective immediately.
In any event, today’s atmosphere should be palpable. Girardi needs Tanaka (7-4, 3.40 ERA) to establish the tone with an ace-like performance. The righty enjoyed a banner July, going 2-1 with a 2.45 ERA. His most recent outing, though, fell flat. Tanaka surrendered seven runs and eight base knocks to the Mets.
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Carrasco (7-5, 3.12) was no better against the Twins several nights ago. Minnesota pounded the 29-year-old for eight runs. Still, the hurler’s on pace to record a respectable 11 victories.
It’s impossible to get an accurate gauge as to New York’s emotional state at the moment. Does the club feel motivated to give A-Rod a proper send-off? One thing’s for certain: Cleveland’s playing some poor baseball. Pick Tanaka to put even further pressure on the sliding Tribe.
SUNDAY MLB FREE PICK: INDIANS/YANKEES UNDER 8 RUNS