Today on Pinstripe Alley - 9/24/21

In case there was any doubt, it’s officially crunch time for the Yankees. The last nine games of the 2021 season take them through Boston and Toronto before wrapping up at home against the likely division champion Rays. It will be a brutal gauntlet to survive to secure a Wild Card berth, but we’ve seen this team look sharp against even the toughest of opponents. They have it in them to do this, and if we’re not at least a little bit hopeful at this point om the season, then it’s hard to be a sports fan.

Step one was sweeping the Rangers. Step two is breaking Boston’s seven-game winning streak tonight behind Gerrit Cole. Buckle up.

Today on the site, Peter will preview the upcoming series against the Red Sox, Andrés will review the Yankees’ new expanded bullpen, and Erica will compare Aaron Boone’s communication tactics to those of his predecessors, Joe Torre and Joe Girardi. Later on, Jesse will consider the importance of the upcoming nine games to this Yankees core’s future, and Ryan will answer your mailbag questions.

Today’s Matchup

New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox

Time: 7:10 p.m. EST

TV: WPIX, NESN, ESPN

Radio: WFAN 660/101.9 FM, WADO 1280

Venue: Fenway Park

Fun Questions:

1. What’s your gut feeling about how this weekend series will go?

2. What’s your favorite side to go with a sandwich for lunch?