The highly anticipated 2024 Subway Series between the New York Mets and the New York Yankees is set to reach a thrilling climax next week in the Bronx. With both teams battling for their postseason dreams, the stakes have never been higher.
Mets Seeking Revenge in the Bronx
In a dramatic turn of events last month, the Mets delivered a resounding sweep over the Yankees at Citi Field. Now, the Yankees look to even the score on their home turf. The Mets, currently holding a 49-46 record, aim to solidify their position in the postseason race. They occupy the third National League wild-card spot, a testament to their impressive performance since June 1, where they've held a 25-13 record.
The Mets' pitching lineup for the upcoming two-game series has been confirmed, with Jose Quintana and Sean Manaea set to take the mound. One notable absence, however, will be former Yankee turned Met, Luis Severino. Severino, who parted ways with the Yankees during the recent offseason, will not face his former team in this series. Despite this, Severino has had a solid season, logging 109 2/3 innings with a 3.78 ERA.
Severino shared his thoughts about facing his former teammates, adding a touch of friendly banter to the series. "We have a group chat, the guys who've been through the Yankees and stayed with the Yankees. They talk s--- about me, like, 'You're afraid of us'. I said, 'I'm not afraid of you guys. Right now you only have two good hitters.' I can walk those two guys. It's always friendly competition with players I've already played with," Severino said. He added, "It's going to be fun, and hopefully in the future, I can face them."
Yankees' Road to Redemption
The Yankees, boasting a stellar 58-40 record, are just one game shy of taking the lead in the competitive AL East and currently hold the fourth-best record in baseball. This series is crucial for them as well, as they strive to reclaim dominance and bolster their postseason prospects.
Since June 22, two of the Yankees' star hitters, Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, have been on an impressive run, hitting .291/.431/.575 with 11 home runs. However, the rest of the lineup has struggled, hitting only .214/.283/.354 with 16 home runs over the last 19 games. The absence of Giancarlo Stanton, who was sidelined with a hamstring injury on June 22, has undoubtedly impacted their lineup. Before his injury, Stanton had 18 home runs and a .795 OPS, and his return to full agility drills brings a glimmer of hope to the Yankees' offense.
Despite these challenges, the Yankees have managed to maintain their status as the highest-scoring team in baseball, averaging 4.98 runs per game as they enter the second half of the season.
Significant Implications for Both Teams
This installment of the Subway Series holds tremendous implications for both teams, and the pressure is palpable. As they face off in the Bronx, every game will carry substantial playoff ramifications. Both teams are poised and ready, each with their eyes set firmly on October.
For the Mets, a successful showing could cement their spot in the postseason and build upon their recent momentum. For the Yankees, it's an opportunity to reclaim bragging rights and assert their dominance in the AL East.
The excitement and intensity surrounding the Subway Series are undeniable. With both New York teams in the thick of the playoff race, fans are in for a captivating showdown that is sure to be remembered for years to come.