New York Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Rays: James Paxton vs. Blake Snell

The Yankees have started the second half on a positive note, as solid starting pitching and timely hitting led to a series win against the Toronto Blue Jays. Potential trade target Marcus Stroman threw a quality start yesterday, but it wasn’t enough against Masahiro Tanaka and the Yankees bullpen.

Now the Bombers will welcome the Tampa Bay Rays into town as they try to extend their lead in the AL East. The most recent four-game series against the Rays ended up in a split down in Tampa, but in the Bronx the Yankees will look for a better result.

James Paxton has been able to dominate after the first innings of his performances. A perfect example is his last outing against the Rays, when he allowed two runs in the first but followed with five shutout innings. It would be highly beneficial for him to find his form earlier in the game, as he’s tasked with facing the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner.

After suffering through the shortest outing of his career against the Yankees on June 19th, Blake Snell rebounded against New York on July 7th, throwing five innings while allowing only one run. He is trying to find some consistency, and this might be the time of the year for Snell, as he was able to improve during the second half of 2018.

Tonight’s game can be seen on YES, MLB.tv and fubo.TV, or heard on WFAN or WADO. First pitch will be at 7:05 PM EST. Lets Go Yankees!