Yankees Clinch Playoff Berth, Set Sights on AL Pennant
Bronx, NY – September 26, 2025 – The New York Yankees secured their place in the 2025 MLB Playoffs today, capitalizing on a dominant offensive season and a resilient pitching staff despite a critically important injury to ace Gerrit cole. The Yankees’ playoff berth marks their second consecutive postseason appearance and fuels aspirations for a World Series title.
Despite Cole undergoing Tommy John surgery in March, sidelining him for the entire 2025 campaign, the Yankees have thrived. Aaron Judge, despite a brief stint on the injured list wiht a strained flexor tendon in his right elbow, showcased a historic pace earlier in the season, hitting .342/.449/.711 with 37 home runs through July 25. while his power numbers have slightly cooled since returning from the IL,the Yankees’ lineup has remained potent,bolstered by standout performances from Giancarlo Stanton,Cody Bellinger,Jazz Chisholm Jr. (who achieved a 30-30 season), and Trent Grisham, who surpassed his combined home run total from the previous two seasons.
The Yankees currently hold a commanding led in the American League East, with a record of 98-64 as of September 26th. Their playoff position is solidified, and they are vying for home-field advantage throughout the AL playoffs.
Current AL Playoff Picture (as of September 26, 2025):
* AL East: 1. New York Yankees (98-64) – Clinched Playoff Spot
* AL Central: 2. Cleveland Guardians (92-70) – Clinched Playoff Spot
* AL West: 3. Houston Astros (90-72) – Clinched Playoff Spot
* Wild Card 1: 4.Baltimore Orioles (89-73) – Clinched Playoff Spot
* Wild Card 2: 5. Texas rangers (87-75)
* Wild Card 3: 6. Seattle Mariners (86-76)
Starting pitching has emerged as a strength for the Yankees in Cole’s absence. Max Fried, who signed an eight-year, $218 million contract last offseason, has stepped into the role of the team’s No. 1 starter. Carlos Rodón is enjoying his best season since joining the Yankees in December 2022, and rookie Cam Schlittler has impressed with a 3.27 ERA and 75 strikeouts in 66 innings.
While the Yankees possess a formidable roster, they are not without flaws. The team has demonstrated a tendency to make baserunning mistakes and commit defensive lapses, issues that proved costly in last year’s postseason.However, their offensive firepower positions them as a legitimate contender to represent the American League in the World Series.
