The Seattle Mariners are looking to avoid a three-game home sweep against the New York Yankees on Thursday, hoping the Yankees are feeling the effects of clinching an American League playoff spot after a 2-1 win on Wednesday. Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo drove in both runs, contributing to New York’s strong postseason return. Manager Aaron Boone highlighted the team’s improved health, while slugger Aaron Judge expressed excitement about competing for a World Series title.
The Yankees, leading the AL East by five games, are focused on winning the division. Meanwhile, the Mariners are five games behind the Houston Astros in the AL West and three games out of a wild-card spot. They suffered a tough loss on Wednesday due to an unusual play that resulted in Julio Rodriguez being tagged out at third base.
In the series finale, Yankees right-hander Clarke Schmidt will face Mariners righty Logan Gilbert, both aiming to improve their recent performances.