Meanwhile, Max Scherzer turned in yet another strong start for the Blue Jays as he rounds into form late in the year. He went six innings, allowing just a single run in the bottom of the second when he loaded the bases with no outs but managed to only get dinged on an Isiah Kiner-Falefa groundout that moved the runners up.

“But I want to listen to what the last several days have been and understanding obviously we’re starting an everyday [stretch], late-night home into Boston series. No consideration [of starting him in right field].” That meant having one of the ...

Armed with high-90s heat and a hammering curveball, as well as efficiency, the Yankees’ rookie retired the first 18 batters he faced.

Of course neither the Yankees nor the Red Sox are in first place as they begin a four-game series on Thursday night at the Stadium. Somehow this still feels like the beginning of an abbreviated

Call it the Ea$t division. Following Rob Manfred’s recent comments about MLB expansion that would lean into Eastern and Western conferences, one often-circulated proposed four-team division would be a heavyweight quartet featuring the Yankees, Mets, Phillies and Red Sox.

The Yankees enter Tuesday five games back of the Toronto Blue Jays in the American League East, and tied with the Seattle Mariners and the Boston Red Sox atop the AL Wild Card standings.

Ahead of the matchup, manager Aaron Boone met with the media and shared several key updates—most notably on superstar Aaron Judge, who recently returned from an IL stint after tweaking his elbow while throwing from the outfield.

David Cone optimistic about the Yankees' playoff chances, highlighting improved pitching rotation and return of key players, Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton.