Yankees vs. Royals: Luis Severino vs. Brad Keller

The Yankees head into the first game of today’s day-night doubleheader with a 65-36 record. They trail the Red Sox by five games in the AL East race, while maintaining a five-game lead over the Mariners for the top American League Wild Card berth. New York sends its ace to the hill this afternoon, as Luis Severino (14-3, 2.63 ERA) takes on right-hander Brad Keller (3-4, 3.20 ERA).

Pitching matchup

Severino aims to get back into Cy Young form following a trio of rocky starts. He allowed two home runs — while only completing five innings — in each outing. Considering Sevy has permitted just 12 long balls all year, it’s somewhat of a concern that half his season-tally came over this recent three-game stretch. His ERA also ballooned from a league-leading 1.98 to 2.63.

Sevy’s last start on Monday against the Rays in St. Petersburg was easily his worst of the year. The righty got pounded for seven runs (six earned) on 11 hits. He did manage to strike out 8 batters without yielding a walk. Severino allowed four runs on nine hits while only striking out one man in his previous start.

Keller has made 30 appearances for the Royals this season, with today being his 10th start. He hurled seven innings in his most recent outing against the Twins, allowing three runs on only three hits. The 23-year-old has given up just two home runs in 70 1/3 innings this year, but his strikeout-to-walk ratio is only 1.52. The Yankees should be patient facing Keller today, as he has averaged 3.7 walks per nine.

Lineups

How to watch

Location: Yankee Stadium

First pitch: 1:05 PM EDT

TV channel: WPIX

Online streaming: MLB.tv (out-of-market only)

Radio broadcast: WFAN 660/101.9 FM, WADO 1280 (full listings)

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