NFL
By: Billy Lewis
The New York Yankees ended the first half as the best team in baseball. They had the best record at 64-28, as well as the best run difference at +199. That just shows how this team has been clicking on all cylinders, in fact, the only other team with a run differential better than +100 is the Dodgers at +169.
One of the perks of a great first half is the Yankees sent six players to the All-Star game. The first three are no surprises, Aaron Judge, Gerrit Cole, and Giancarlo Stanton. Their other three All-Stars would have been unexpected at the beginning of the year with Nestor Cortes, Clay Holmes, and Jose Trevino.
Judge has been the most eye-popping player on the Yankees. Through the All-Star break, Judge has 33 home runs, 70 RBIs, and a .983 OPS. The home run chase to 61 looks to be a fun storyline to follow for the rest of the summer.
Yankees Looking Forward to Second Half
The Bronx Bombers entered the break with a 13-game lead in the AL East searching for their first division title since 2019. While it feels like a lock right now, crazy things can happen throughout the dog days of summer. Manager Aaron Boone will have to keep the guys motivated and see they don’t get complacent. With the leadership of Judge, Anthony Rizzo, and Gerrit Cole, that shouldn’t be a problem.
Of course, in the Bronx regular seasons aren’t what the fans are worried about. The Yankees are on pace for about 113 wins, they have drawn parallels to the 1998 team which won 114 regular season games. The 2022 Yankees hope the season ends the same way, with a parade down the Canyon of Heros.
There has not been a championship in the Bronx since 2009. The 2022 team is looking to change that. After the All-Star Game, the trade deadline approaches quickly on August 2nd. Trades that are made, or even not made, will shape the team for the playoff run. As good as it has been so far, Brian Cashman is working to make sure it ends with a World Series Championship in the Bronx.
