In June, MLB playoff competition is expected to intensify due to schedule changes. In addition, there is an increased likelihood that the American League East division will become the first division in MLB history since 1969 to finish a season with every team with a record above .500. This week, several American League East teams will face challenging games that hold great significance. In particular, the iconic Red Sox-Yankees rivalry will be replayed, along with a showdown between the league's best teams.
Astros take on the Blue Jays
During the three-day period of April 17-19, the Houston Astros were victorious in two of three games against the Toronto Blue Jays in Houston. In the previous year, the Astros had a 2-4 losing record against Toronto, which turned out to be their lowest record (in terms of winning percentage) against any team in a World Series championship.
Despite going 0-for-11 in the April series when he visited Houston, George Springer still had an impressive career before joining the Blue Jays in 2021, including making the American League All-Star team three times, winning two Silver Slugger awards and even helping the Astros win the 2014-2020 World Series. However, last season showed a different side of him, as he managed to connect for three home runs in just five games when facing his former team.
Mets look to bounce back against Braves
During the dates of April 28-May 1, the New York Mets came up short in two of three games against the Atlanta Braves in New York. Looking back at last season, the Mets had a 9-10 record when facing Atlanta, with one instance of a three-game winning streak ultimately giving the Braves enough momentum to secure the division championship.
In six appearances last month, Bryce Elder turned in an outstanding performance while maintaining a remarkable 1.72 ERA. This Tuesday, Elder is anticipated to start against the Mets, marking his debut game against the team.
YAINER! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/VUXH77BlQL
- Houston Astros (@LosAstros) June 4, 2023
Red Sox and Yankees rekindle rivalry
The Yankees and Red Sox have not met on the field this year, but that will change this week. Last season, the Yankees dominated with a 13-6 record against the Red Sox, which happened to be their most wins against any opponent. The infamous controversy is making a comeback, and it's all due to a revised system that results in fewer tie games.
On June 9, the series will begin with the first game. It has been more than two decades since the first BOS-NYY game was played as late as this one, except for the interrupted 2020 season, which did not begin until July.
Yankees star Aaron Judge showed he's willing to do whatever it takes to help the Yankees win. In Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, he crashed into the bullpen door at Dodger Stadium while making a spectacular running catch. It paid off, as the Yankees won 6-3. Judge will continue to be a driving force behind the Yankees' success, as he has been since the beginning of the season.
