The much-anticipated climax of the 2024 Subway Series between the New York Mets and the New York Yankees is set to take place next week in the Bronx. Riding high from a two-game sweep delivered at Citi Field last month, the Mets are eager to continue their winning streak, while the Yankees are determined to return the favor on their home turf.
Both teams are fighting tooth and nail for their postseason dreams. The Mets have been on an impressive run of form since June 1, boasting a solid 25-13 record. This stellar performance has pushed them to a 49-46 overall standing, currently occupying the third National League wild-card spot. The winning formula has been apparent in their resilience and tactical gameplay, leading them to this crucial juncture of the season.
On the mound for the Mets in the upcoming series will be Jose Quintana and Sean Manaea, pivotal players who will be tasked with maintaining the team's momentum. Notably absent from this face-off is Luis Severino, once a fixture in the Yankees' rotation. Severino, who parted ways with the Yankees during the recent offseason, has thrown 109 2/3 innings this season, boasting a 3.78 ERA. The series will be an interesting watch without him facing his former team.
Meanwhile, the Yankees have also been putting up a formidable front. With a 58-40 record, they find themselves just one game shy of the AL East lead, holding the fourth-best record in baseball. The team has been spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, who have been dealing damage to opposing pitchers with a combined .291/.431/.575 slash line and 11 home runs since June 22.
However, beyond Judge and Soto, the Yankees' lineup has struggled, hitting .214/.283/.354 with just 16 home runs over the same period. The lineup's inconsistency is exacerbated by the absence of Giancarlo Stanton, who has been sidelined since June 22 with a hamstring injury. Before his injury, Stanton was a major contributor with 18 home runs and a .795 OPS. Positive signs have emerged, though, as Stanton recently resumed full agility drills, sparking hope for his return.
The Yankees' powerful offense, which has averaged 4.98 runs per game entering the second half of the season, could be pivotal in reversing their recent misfortunes. However, challenges remain, especially given the depth that teams like the Mets bring to the plate.
The subway series brings more than rivalry; it brings playoff ramifications. These games have significant implications as both squads are pushing hard for postseason berths. The charged atmosphere, the strategic moves, and every swing of the bat will matter, making this series a spectacle.
Despite not partaking in this Subway Series, Severino remains connected to the narrative. "We have a group chat, the guys who've been through the Yankees and stayed with the Yankees. They talk s--- about me, like, 'You're afraid of us'. I said, 'I'm not afraid of you guys. Right now you only have two good hitters.' I can walk those two guys. It's always friendly competition with players I've already played with," Severino shared, adding humor and a hint of rivalry to the mix.
He continued, "It's going to be fun, and hopefully in the future I can face them." These words echo the sentiments of fans and players alike, encapsulating the fierce, yet friendly spirit that defines the Subway Series.
As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on the Bronx next week. With both the Mets and Yankees battling for crucial wins, the excitement in the stadium will be palpable. It's not just another series; it's a chapter in a storied rivalry that continues to captivate the baseball world.