Yankees: 4 Keys to Success in the ALCS

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Starting Pitching

The Yankees found some consistency in their starters in the division series from Sabathia, Severino, and Tanaka. With pitchers like Dallas Keuchel, Justin Verlander, and Lance McCullers opposing them, it will be imperative to get as many quality innings as possible if they want to come out victorious against the favored Astros.

Bullpen

The bullpen has been outstanding thus far and could be the difference maker in this best of seven series. If Girardi can push the right buttons at the right time, the Yankees stand a great chance to pull off another seemingly impossible feat. However, things could get potentially disastrous if certain arms are overused, so mixing it up should serve them well as they have five excellent arms at their disposal.

Didi Gregorious

Gregorious has been one of, if not the most important hitter in the Yankee lineup all season. His heroics helped lift the Yankees through both the Wild Card game and the Division Series and will be needed against Houston. If he can continue to deliver in the clutch, it will go a long way in determining what happens throughout the series. 

Aaron Judge

Things did not go well for Judge against Cleveland as he struck out sixteen times in five games due to poor plate discipline (and a rather unfair strike zone for a guy his height). That must change here as he the Astros will certainly look to expose him in key situations. If he can get back into form and contribute to the offense, he could be the catalyst that helps propel the Bronx Bombers to the World Series.