The Houston Astros and New York Yankees will square off at this year’s ALCS. Let’s take a look at the factors that can decide the series.
Rest Days
Houston wrapped things up on Monday at Fenway Park. On the other hand, New York did the same two days later. It might not look like a big deal, but it is. The Astros have two full days of rest before the ALCS in comparison to their rivals. In times like these, this is crucial. Not only does this give rest to offensive players, it also helps the bullpen.
Big Arms
Dallas Keuchel is set to start on Friday for the Houston ballclub. After him comes Verlander. While it is true manager Joe Girardi has not made any statement on his starter for Game 1, the Yankees do not look as sharp. Pitchers like Luis Severino and CC Sabathia can get the job done, but they will not go as deep into the game as Keuchel or Verlander. Sonny Gray has lost command on his bread and butter curveball and Masahiro Tanaka is not very consistent to say the least. Chad Green, David Robertson, and closer Aroldis Chapman can plug in the holes, but they will come from the pen.
The Offense
Both offenses have been extremely productive. George Springer, Carlos Correa, and Jose Altuve have ripped the seems off the baseball. The Yankees have shown just as much power. Gary Sanchez, Aaron Hicks, Didi Gregorius, and Greg Bird contributed tons to the Yankee offensive cause during the ALDS. Nonetheless, their biggest offensive threat has been neutralized this postseason.
The Judge Issue
To say Aaron Judge is having “a bad postseason” is an understatement. The rookie outfielder’s strikeout issue is a big problem for the Yankees. When facing a team as dangerous and as deathly in the rally as the Astros, you need production from players like Judge. The Yankees would not have had to struggle as much against Cleveland with Judge’s power.
So, Who Wins?
The Houston Astros will move on to the World Series. Houston will do this thanks to strong pitching during the key home games to start the series and a hot, productive offense. Don’t expect a sweep. Given their young and talented roster, it is hard to envision a Yankee team that does not put up a fight. Houston will win the series 4 games to 2.
Just remember, anything can happen during postseason.