This week’s matchup in the Bronx has shifted from a highly anticipated showdown to a more relaxed series as the New York Yankees prepare to host the Baltimore Orioles for three games. With a solid six-game cushion and only six games remaining, the Yankees need just one victory to clinch the AL East Division title. Meanwhile, the Orioles have faced challenges in recent weeks and are now eyeing a wildcard spot to kick off the playoffs. The pitching duel on Tuesday night will showcase Orioles’ right-hander Dean Kremer (7-10, 4.19) against Yankees’ righty Clarke Schmidt (5-4, 2.37). The game is set to begin at 7:05 PM EST.
Baltimore Banks on Kremer’s Performance
The Baltimore Orioles were in a fierce contest with the New York Yankees earlier this summer for the top position in the American League East and the best record in the league. Unfortunately, the team has struggled lately, leading them to settle for a wildcard position in the upcoming American League playoffs. Over the weekend, the Orioles managed to win only one of three games against the Detroit Tigers, another team vying for a wildcard spot. They narrowly lost 4-3 on Sunday, with starter Albert Suarez allowing four runs over five innings, leaving the Orioles’ offense unable to capitalize.
The Orioles will start Dean Kremer in Tuesday night’s opener at Yankee Stadium. With the division title seemingly out of reach, the team will focus on maintaining the health and readiness of their players as they prepare for the wildcard round next week. Kremer has made 23 starts this season, resulting in a 7-10 record with nine quality starts. His statistics include a 4.19 ERA and a WHIP of 1.25, during which he has allowed 107 hits in 124.2 innings. Kremer’s last outing ended in a loss, where he pitched six innings and conceded four earned runs in a 5-3 defeat to the San Francisco Giants.
Key Injuries: Starting Pitcher Grayson Rodriguez, Relief Pitcher Burch Smith, Second Baseman Jorge Mateo, and Relief Pitcher Felix Bautista will not participate.
Yankees Aim to Secure Title with Schmidt
The New York Yankees are on the verge of capturing their second AL East Division title in three years as they prepare to face the Orioles. With just one victory needed to clinch the division and six games remaining, the Yankees are riding high after winning five of their last six games during their West Coast trip through Seattle and Oakland. They concluded a series sweep of the Athletics on Sunday, winning 7-4, which featured Aaron Judge’s impressive 55th home run, making a strong case for American League MVP.
The Yankees are poised to secure not just the division title but potentially the best record in the American League, ensuring them the top seed in the playoffs. Right-hander Clarke Schmidt is slated to take the mound in the first game against the Orioles. After spending significant time on the injured list this season, Schmidt has made only 14 appearances, compiling a 5-4 record with an impressive 2.37 ERA and a WHIP of 1.17. This game is particularly important for Schmidt as he could be auditioning for a starting role in the playoffs or securing a place on the postseason roster.
Key Injuries: Relief Pitchers Jake Cousins, Lou Trivino, and Jonathan Loáisiga will not play.
Best Bets for Baltimore Orioles vs. New York Yankees
The Orioles have struggled as they approach the playoffs, now focusing on securing a wildcard position. A key concern for Baltimore is the status of starter Grayson Rodriguez, who is expected to return from the injured list on September 27th. Rodriguez’s return could solidify the rotation as a strong #2 option behind Corbin Burnes. In these final games, the Orioles will likely prioritize getting their pitching lineup set while hoping for an uptick in their struggling offense. Conversely, the Yankees aim to wrap things up quickly, allowing them to rest their veteran players and finalize their starting rotation for the playoffs. Given the current dynamics, a quick and decisive victory for the Yankees seems probable in the opener, which may be the most competitive game of the series.
