Yankees clinch playoff berth by beating Mariners 2-1 in 10 innings
Sports
It’s the 59th postseason appearance in franchise history
A year ago, the New York Yankees were knocked out of playoff contention with a week to go in the regular season, ending a string of six straight postseason appearances.
Remembering what that was like made wrapping up a playoff berth with more than a week left this time around feel that much better.
“We’ve been through a lot already this year,” manager Aaron Boone said. “We understand it’s just a first step — but it’s an important one. We’re in the dance.”
After spending last year sitting at home when the postseason arrived, the Yankees secured their place in the 2024 playoffs with a 2-1 win over the Seattle Mariners in 10 innings Wednesday night.
Nestor Cortes, who pitched six shutout innings, said this Yankees team is using the sting of last season as motivation heading into October.
“Last year we were out of the playoffs. Sour feeling for us,” Cortes said as New York players drenched each other in beer and bubbly during a jubilant clubhouse celebration.
“Coming into spring training, we had one goal, and that’s to make the playoffs, and we’re here. Obviously, the ultimate goal for every team is to be in the World Series and win the World Series. But as of right now, we’re going to enjoy this moment.”
New York has the best record in the American League at 89-63 and leads second-place Baltimore by five games in the AL East with 10 to play. The latest victory ensured the Yankees at least a wild card.
It’s the 59th postseason appearance in franchise history, but the Yankees are still trying to end a World Series drought that dates to 2009, when New York celebrated its 27th title.
“A lot of things have come together,” Boone said. “Probably better health overall. Definitely an added focus for guys that were coming off tough years. And simply put — we’re better. We weren’t a great team last year and this team has a chance to do something special.”
Soto reached the 40-homer mark for the first time in Tuesday’s series opener against the Mariners. It was also the 200th longball of his career, at just age 25 and heading into an offseason when he will be the top free agent. The duo will probably determine just how deep this Yankees playoff run goes.
“Getting a front-row seat this year, all year, watching him, watching him go about it, watching him day in and day out, just a great hitter,” Boone said.
