Yankees Playoff Profile: 2021

The Yankees have had quite the rollercoaster of the season, but finally clinched a playoff spot. This team has been a bit of a puzzle all season, as they have such strong players on their roster but were unable to compete consistently enough for a chance at the division. Regardless, they remain a big threat this October, and anything can happen once the playoffs get underway. So what are the strengths and weaknesses of this team?

Powerful Offense, but Inconsistent

When it comes to the Yankees, the first strength that enters my mind is their offense. Headlined by Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, the Yankees have some very powerful offensive players in their line-up and two of the best hitters in baseball.

In the first half of the season the line-up was primarily right handed, but it became more balanced after the additions of Anthony Rizzo and Joey Gallo at the trade deadline. While a more balanced line-up is preferable to allow for better match-ups, the two left handed additions did not solve the Yankees biggest problem: consistency. 

The Yankees offense is hot and cold. Key hitters like DJ LeMahieu and Gleyber Torres have underperformed this season. One obstacle the team has overcome, however, is injury. Judge and Stanton both were able to make it through the majority of the season. And some hitters who underperformed in 2020 were able to bounce back, like Gary Sanchez. 

When compared to other teams, the Yankees do not crack the top 10 in terms of team average or slugging percentage. The do, however, rank 9th in the majors in terms of on base percentage. 

While they have been streaky all season, they are certainly not an easy team to outscore in the playoffs. When they are all on, they can provide power and hard contact from nearly their entire line-up. 

Defensive Downfalls

The Yankees improved their defense when they shifted Gleyber Torres from shortstop to second base a few weeks ago, but they are still not an elite defensive team. While they do have good defensive players, like Aaron Judge, DJ LeMahieu, Joey Gallo, and Tyler Wade, they are lacking in the field.

While I believe the players I mentioned do have above average defensive abilities, the team as a whole seems to be underperforming defensively. Lately they’ve been having trouble making routine plays. I do not think this is due to a lack of athletic talent. I think it has more to do with the players themselves not taking the defensive side of the game as seriously as they should. Instead, it seems they are more focused on their offense (even though many are underperforming in that area as well). 

Pitching Expectations

The Yankees have one of the best pitchers in the league in Gerrit Cole, the Yankees’ go-to for must win games. Cole, like many other pitchers, had a slight hiccup mid-season when substance checks began, but he has finished the regular season strong with a 2.91 FIP. Luis Gil was recently called up and has shown off his electric stuff, despite some issues with command. Néstor Cortes Jr. has helped fill injury gaps as well and is excelling with a 3.00 ERA and 28% strikeout rate in 13 games. 

Luis Severino recently returned from injury and has performed well so far. In 6 IP he has 8 strikeouts and has not given up a run. He is a huge addition to the Yankees’ pitching staff, and he can definitely handle some high leverage innings. He can help shorten the game and bridge the gap between the starting pitchers and the back of the bullpen. If he remains healthy he will be tough to beat.  

The Yankees’ bullpen is strong and ranks fourth in the majors in terms of FIP at 3.75. Notable relievers this season include ground ball pitchers Jonathan Loáisiga and Clay Holmes. Left handed pitcher Lucas Luetge did not necessarily have a spot on the team at the beginning of the season, but has become one of their more reliable relief pitchers this season.

Aroldis Chapman has had a rollercoaster of a year, and has struggled with command. He has the highest walk rate and FIP of his career this season. It is going to be critical for the Yankees that Chapman’s fastball is sharp, especially in tight games.

How far do you think the Yankees will make it this year?