Around the Empire: Yankees news - 6/1/21

New York Post | Ken Davidoff: The Rays are doing more than just beating the Yankees – they’re exposing them. The differences between the two teams couldn’t be more stark: Tampa Bay is deep, nails the fundamentals, and does it all on an $82 million payroll. New York is thin, can't get out of its own way, and is playing like a $208 million disappointment. The most annoying part? All the Yankees can do is tip their cap to their hated rivals, who are just in a better position to succeed than themselves right now.

Sports Illustrated | Max Goodman: The Yankees didn't think it necessary to give Giancarlo Stanton a rehab assignment before activating him after his quad injury, but that may not have been the best move. Stanton is 0-for-12 with eight strikeouts in three games since his return, and was greeted with boos at Yankee Stadium. Aaron Boone is not rattled, claiming that Stanton “will be fine,” but the Bronx faithful is getting restless, particularly as the rest of the offense struggles to score runs.

SNY | Ryan Morik: Now, for some good news. Luis Severino will begin a rehab assignment on Sunday, in what will be his first game action since the 2019 ALCS following Tommy John surgery. Boone suggested that Severino is due for a return around the All-Star break, which is right on schedule. With the Yankees’ rotation in need of another arm, Severino should provide a boost soon, so long as the Yankees don’t rush him back. We don’t want to see a Noah Syndergaard-style setback.