Sun Sep 29 23:46:56 UTC 2024: ## Yankees Clinch Top Seed in AL, Ready for Postseason Run

**New York, NY** – The New York Yankees concluded their regular season with a 6-4 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday, solidifying their position as the American League’s top seed and securing home-field advantage throughout the AL playoffs.

Despite a rainy and cold day at Yankee Stadium, the Yankees finished the season with a 94-68 record, thanks in part to Alex Verdugo’s two-run single in the eighth inning.

With the regular season over, the Yankees now enter a five-day break before facing the winner of the AL wild-card series between the Orioles and Royals in Game 1 of the ALDS on October 6th.

“I think we match up great with everybody,” said Clarke Schmidt, who pitched four-plus innings on Sunday. “Obviously, we’re very talented top to bottom. I personally think we’re the best team in baseball, and we’re going to set out to try to prove that this postseason.”

Manager Aaron Boone echoed Schmidt’s confidence, stating, “It’s crazy; you go through 162 games, I feel like we’ve been through a ton as a team this year. To end up with the best record in the American League, I think it’s something to be proud of.”

The Yankees will use the upcoming break for rest and workouts, including simulated games and live at-bats for pitchers in need of preparation.

While the team is optimistic about their chances, the ALDS will be a crucial test for the Yankees. The starting rotation will likely consist of Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, and either Schmidt or Luis Gil in Game 3.

Meanwhile, the status of first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who suffered two fractured fingers on Saturday, remains uncertain. While Rizzo is considered a long shot to play in the ALDS, the Yankees haven’t placed him on the injured list yet.

The Yankees are now ready to begin their quest for their 28th World Series title, and they are confident in their ability to go all the way. “This is what you dream of in October is playing,” Rizzo said. “If I can be out there to help the team, it’s definitely what I’ll do my best to do.”

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