The Yankees' challenging path to the playoffs is attainable

The New York Yankees, one of the most storied franchises in baseball history, are once again in the hunt for a playoff spot. As the season enters its final stretch, the Yankees find themselves in a tight race in the highly competitive American League. 

Let's explore the potential path the Yankees can take to secure a spot in the playoffs and potentially make a deep postseason run. 

Before delving into the Yankees' path to the playoffs, let's take a closer look at the current American League playoff standings. As of the most recent games, the Yankees find themselves in a challenging position. 

With a record of 55-52 (.514), they are currently 11 games behind the divisional-leader Baltimore Orioles 66-41 (.617) and 3.5 games behind the wild card spot. While these numbers may seem daunting, plenty of baseball remains to be played and the Yankees have the talent and experience to turn their season around.

To make a push for the playoffs, the Yankees will need to improve their winning percentage .46 points to .560, getting to 90 wins on the season. With 55 games left in the season, the Yankees need to win 35 of those. They are 32-26 (.560) at home this season. Twenty-four of the remaining 55 games are at home. 

To do this, the Yankees will need their key players to step up and deliver. One player who has consistently performed at a high level is Aaron Judge, who is now back in the lineup. The towering outfielder has been a force at the plate, showcasing his power and ability to drive in runs. With his ability to change the game with one swing of the bat, Judge will be crucial to the Yankees' success down the stretch. The Yankees are .580 with Judge in the lineup this season. 

As the season progresses, the Yankees will face several vital matchups and series that could make or break their playoff aspirations. They have two upcoming divisional matchups against the Red Sox, Blue Jays and one more with Rays. These series will be crucial, as these games directly impact the standings. 

Winning the Boston series and picking up a win against the Rays Wednesday will help the Yankees gain ground. Additionally, the two upcoming series against the Houston Astros (61-47) will prove pivotal, as they are the main target for the wild card birth. 

The New York Yankees have a challenging road ahead as they look to secure a spot in the playoffs. With key players performing at a high level, potential roster upgrades, and a favorable schedule, the Yankees have the tools to make a strong push. 

All they need is 35 wins in 55 games; that's .630 over the next two months. With the rotational health, Nestor Cortez about to rejoin and Judge back in the lineup, the Yankees are expected to win 32 games (.581). 

It's going to boil down to three games; if they can take one additional game in the Astros, Blue Jays and Red Sox series, there is a good chance we will see the Yankees in the playoffs.

As the season unfolds, it will be exciting to see how the team navigates the challenges and strives for postseason glory. Remember, in baseball, anything can happen and the road to the playoffs is often full of surprises. 

So, buckle up, Yankees fans, and get ready for an exciting and potentially historic run toward October baseball.