After losing the past two nights and six of their last seven, the Yankees find themselves in a 5-8 hole. While just 13 games in there is absolutely no need to panic, caution flags are being raised. The starting pitching and especially the bullpen has been doing their jobs for the most part, whereas the lineup has been slacking significantly.
This is how they'll lineup tonight against the lefty Rich Hill, who has 1-2 record to go with a 4.15 ERA. Having a lefty on the bump is not something the Yankees need, after struggling with them mightily last season. As you can see Girardi has adjusted the lineup accordingly, and inserting those right-handed bats wherever he can.
What the long-term success of the Yankees hinges on is the play of Tex and A-Rod. Their respective .182 and .163 batting averages in the early going are nothing short of unacceptable. It's the reason they haven't been producing runs and in turn, winning games. These guys must get back on track to put their team back in the win column.
Another thing I'll be looking for tonight is how Luis Severino pitches. In his first two starts this year he has been banged up, possessing an 0-2 record and 5.91 ERA. Lately his pitches just have not had the same sharpness as last year, and if this continues it could be cause for concern. Let's hope Sevy can get back on the winning track as the team is set to host the Rays this weekend to finish the homestand.
GO YANKS!
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