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Around the Empire: Yankees news - 10/7/19

A big October is just what Didi needs; Aaron Judge just keeps getting on base; the Yankees just keep getting on base; how Tyler Lyons went from “who” to ALDS roster.

2019 ALDS Game 2 - Minnesota Twins v. New York Yankees Photo by Alex Trautwig/MLB Photos via Getty Images

Sports Illustrated | Tom Verducci: New York’s favorite knight has had a rough pre-free agency season, from watching Gleyber Torres become an All-Star at his position to struggling down the stretch, all en route to an 87 OPS+. Going into his age-30 season in 2020, Sir Didi will be hitting the market at just the wrong time. But a strong October — built upon the type of hot power and hot streaks lacking for most of this year, but on display Saturday evening — may be just what the squire ordered.

New York Post | Dan Martin: The Yankees offense seems to be firing on all cylinders from 1 through 9, but it’s number 99 that has been the most instrumental reason the Yankees are looking to sweep the Twins tonight. Aaron Judge has been vocal about the team putting its past behind them, saying, “All I’m thinking about is missed opportunities in years past.” And missed chances have come few and far between for the right fielder, as Judge has only been retired three times in the first two games.

NJ.com | Randy Miller: Andrew McCutchen’s season may have ended prematurely for the Philadelphia Phillies, but his impact can still be felt in October. In a short but memorable stint in the Bronx last season, the veteran outfielder became known for “pimping” walks in much the same way that sluggers have been pimping home runs. The 2019 Yankees have taken this especially to heart, as they’ve striven to wear opposing pitchers down not just with their bat, but with their patience at the plate — and so far, it’s worked wonders.

NJ.com | Brandon Kuty: When the Yankees signed Tyler Lyons to a minor-league deal on August 15, everybody expected him to be the “Wait a second, he was on the 2019 Yankees?” answer to a Sporcle quiz. Instead, somehow, he has ended up as a surprise member of the ALDS roster, due to an injury to CC Sabathia and an illness to Stephen Tarpley. The 31-year-old has had a rough go of late, but has been given a golden opportunity with the Yankees — one that he is not prepared to waste.