Image Source: MLB.com
The Yankees standings are heating up as New York makes a serious push towards the playoffs, guided by the stellar performance of Giancarlo Stanton. In a thrilling game on September 26, 2025, Stanton’s clutch three-run double propelled the Yankees to a 5-3 victory over the Chicago White Sox, marking their fifth consecutive win. This not only swept the three-game series against the White Sox but also maintained their position at the top of the AL East standings.
With the Yankees now sitting at 91 wins and 68 losses, they have achieved a season-high 23 games over .500. This puts them neck and neck with the Toronto Blue Jays, who also continue to dominate the division. As the regular season approaches its end, the stakes have never been higher for both teams, especially since the division champion will earn a coveted first-round bye in the playoffs.
Stanton’s Inspirational Performance
Stanton’s impressive double down the third-base line brought in crucial runs at a critical moment in the game. He expressed confidence in the team’s abilities heading into the playoffs, stating, “It’s understood, what we need to do. It’s what we’re capable of.” As the Yankees prepare for the postseason, each game takes on a heightened significance, resembling that of October baseball.
The Yankees standings complicate further as they must maintain their focus against an unexpectedly talented Baltimore Orioles team in their upcoming series. Stanton recognizes the threat posed by the Orioles, noting, “We know we’ve got to go out and play well, execute, and play good baseball.” With games against the Orioles and a tight AL East race, the Yankees are under pressure to perform at their best consistently.
Pitching Strength: Rodón’s Contribution
On the mound, Carlos Rodón has been instrumental in the Yankees’ success. He pitched six innings against the White Sox, allowing just three runs on four hits, securing his 18th victory of the season. Rodón’s performance has not only helped keep the Yankees competitive but also showcased his growth as a pitcher, achieving a personal milestone of over 200 strikeouts in a season for the second time in his career.
Rodón’s main mantra, as his manager Aaron Boone points out, is to “keep chopping wood.” This approach has served him well, finishing the season with an impressive 3.09 ERA over 33 starts, making the Yankees feel confident heading into the postseason.
Aaron Judge Makes History
In addition to Stanton and Rodón’s standings boosting efforts, Aaron Judge has etched his name in the record books by establishing a new AL record for intentional walks. With his 36th walk during the game against the White Sox, Judge surpasses the previous record held by Ted Williams. This achievement showcases Judge’s immense talent and the respect he garners from opposing teams, further solidifying his status as an integral part of the Yankees’ lineup.
As the regular season winds down, with just three games left before the playoffs, the Yankees’ path is clearer yet competitive. They will be keenly observing the Blue Jays’ matches while working to solidify their own position. The close-knit standings of the AL East indicate that every game can have significant ramifications on their postseason fate.
Upcoming Challenges and Opportunities
The Yankees’ final series will be crucial, particularly as they face off against the Orioles, who possess the capability to disrupt any team’s playoff hopes. As Stanton emphasized, it’s all about preparation and execution: “We know we’ve got to go out and play well, execute, and play good baseball.” Fans will be watching closely to see if the Yankees can continue this momentum into the postseason, aiming for another run at the World Series.
FAQ
How are the Yankees performing in the AL East standings?
The Yankees are currently tied for first place in the AL East standings, sharing the spot with the Toronto Blue Jays as the regular season comes to a close.
Who has been the standout player for the Yankees recently?
Giancarlo Stanton has performed exceptionally well, with clutch hits that have driven the Yankees to crucial victories as they creep closer to postseason play.
What is Carlos Rodón’s recent impact on the Yankees?
Carlos Rodón has been a reliable pitcher for the Yankees, recently achieving a career milestone of over 200 strikeouts this season and finishing strong heading into the playoffs.
What should fans expect from the Yankees in the upcoming games?
Fans can expect high-stakes games as the Yankees focus on winning crucial matchups to secure their playoff position and potentially gain a first-round bye.
When do the Yankees play their next game?
The Yankees will play against the Baltimore Orioles next, a series critical to their playoff ambitions as the regular season concludes.
