Yankees surge closer to AL East crown with massive homer barrage in Oakland

OAKLAND, Calif. — The New York Yankees are inching closer to locking in a playoff spot, as their magic number to clinch dropped to three after a commanding 10-0 rout of the Athletics in Oakland. Their progress was further bolstered by the Orioles’ extra-innings loss to the Tigers. With a five-game cushion and just ten games left, the Yankees are well-positioned to potentially secure their playoff berth ahead of a three-game homestand against the Orioles.

Giancarlo Stanton voiced confidence in the team’s current standing. The game featured standout performances, including Aaron Judge‘s 54th home run of the season and Juan Soto’s smooth return to action following a brief knee issue. Both Stanton and Anthony Volpe shook off recent slumps with crucial home runs, contributing to the blowout. The dominant victory highlighted the Yankees’ all-around firepower, building momentum as they gear up for the postseason push.

Judge, Stanton, Volpe lead Yankees homer barrage

In their final series at the Coliseum, the Yankees unleashed a potent offensive display, highlighted by towering home runs from Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Anthony Volpe. Together, their blasts covered an incredible 1,287 feet, fueling the team’s 10-0 demolition of the A’s and bringing them closer to clinching the AL East crown.

New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodón, right, reacts after shortstop Anthony Volpe threw out Oakland Athletics’ Brent Rooker at first base to end the third inning of a baseball game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, in Oakland, Calif.
AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez

Carlos Rodon earned his 16th win of the season with a solid six-inning outing, praising the lineup’s firepower. He emphasized how the hitters’ strength makes his job on the mound easier. With his win total now among the top three in the majors, Rodon’s performance reflects both his personal excellence and the Yankees’ overall dominance.

The Yankees solidified their grip on the division following their win, combined with the Orioles’ earlier defeat on Saturday. Now sitting at 91-64, they hold a five-game lead with just seven games remaining, reducing their magic number to clinch the AL East to three. They also maintain a 1.5-game edge over the Guardians for the AL’s best record, which would guarantee home-field advantage throughout the playoffs…

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