With Playoff Ticket Punched, Retooled Yankees Hope For Different Postseason Ending in 2025

The Yankees hope that it will be a small step toward their goal of a 28th World Series title. Last season, the Bronx Bombers advanced to their first World Series appearance since 2009 – but they were eliminated in a humiliating, five-game defeat to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

New Faces Who’ve Supercharged the Bronx Bombers

Having retooled in the offseason and ahead of the 2025 trade deadline, the Yankees have a different swagger than last year’s squad. Max Fried has stepped in capably to fill the void of injured ace Gerrit Cole. The left-hander has sparkled to an 18-5 record with a 2.92 ERA and 1.11 WHIP.

Outfielder-first baseman Cody Bellinger has added protection behind Judge and given the Yankees plenty of value at the plate and in the field. Bellinger is batting .269 with 29 home runs and 97 RBIs with a .811 OPS.

Defense was a glaring issue for New York last postseason. Bellinger has solidified the Yankees’ outfield. Third baseman Ryan McMahon has dazzled with his defense at the hot corner. Veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt has brought leadership, a steady glove and a sizzling 1.020 OPS bat against left-handers.

Caballero was acquired to add speed on the basepaths and is experienced at every position on the diamond aside from catcher and first base. Amed Rosario also brings versatility and his bat has been potent when called upon.

General manager Brian Cashman has gone to great lengths to remodel the bullpen. David Bednar has claimed the closer’s role and offers stress-free ninth innings. Devin Williams faltered throughout much of his debut season in pinstripes – but he’s settled down lately. Luke Weaver, Fernando Cruz and lefty Tim Hill have been reliable arms.

Veterans Leading the Way

Highly-paid veterans have stepped up, too. Carlos Rodon turned in an All-Star season with a 17-9 record, 3.04 ERA and 1.06 WHIP through 32 starts.

Giancarlo Stanton returned from a long absence with a scorching bat. The 35-year-old slugger is batting .263 with 21 home runs, 56 RBIs and .903 OPS in 72 games.

Then, there’s the superlative play of Judge. The Yankees’ captain could earn his third career AL MVP, though he’s facing strong competition from Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh. Judge is leading the majors with a .325 batting average and a 1.121 OPS.

With a record of 89-68, the Yankees only trail the AL East-leading Toronto Blue Jays by a single game. Whether or not they overtake the Jays, the Yankees have a renewed vigor heading into the 2025 playoffs.

The Yankees have the chance to prove that they’re capable of returning to the World Series, and perhaps they’ll change the ending to a World Series title and a parade down the “Canyon of Heroes.”