CC Sabathia, a Yankees legend, believes the bullpen is key to the team's success in the postseason.
The New York Yankees are on the verge of clinching the AL East division title, and former pitcher CC Sabathia believes they have the potential to make a deep run in the playoffs. However, Sabathia emphasizes that the bullpen will be crucial to their success.
"Honestly, I think it would have to be the bullpen," Sabathia said. "Sure, without offense, you can't win games. But pitching becomes even more paramount in October, especially if your starter is either tapped out or can't seem to find it early in the game."
CC Sabathia Reveals Yankees Catalyst to Reach World Series
The Yankees have had their share of bullpen struggles this season, but manager Aaron Boone has seemingly found a solution by replacing Clay Holmes with Luke Weaver as the closer. Weaver has converted all four of his save opportunities since taking over the role and also picked up a win in an extra-inning game.
Tommy Kahnle and Ian Hamilton have also impressed in late-inning situations, while Jake Cousins could return from the IL in time for the playoffs. Additionally, the Yankees have several starting pitchers who could transition to the bullpen for the postseason, including Marcus Stroman, Clarke Schmidt, Luis Gil, and Nestor Cortes.
CC Sabathia Reveals Yankees Catalyst to Reach World Series
Sabathia is well aware of the impact a strong bullpen can have on a postseason run, which is why he also likes the Cleveland Guardians' chances in the American League.
"On the flip side, Cleveland has the bullpen," Sabathia said. "If you get into a six-inning game with them, the game's over."
CC Sabathia Reveals Yankees Catalyst to Reach World Series
Emmanuel Clase, the Guardians' closer, has a 0.63 ERA and has led the league in saves over the past three seasons.
In the National League, Sabathia predicts that the San Diego Padres will make it to the World Series.
CC Sabathia Reveals Yankees Catalyst to Reach World Series
"I think the Padres are going to be in the World Series," he said. "They have a solid starting rotation with Dylan Cease, Joe Musgrove, Yu Darvish, and Michael King. Their bullpen has also been impressive with Tanner Scott and Jason Adam."
The Padres also boast a talented lineup featuring Xander Bogaerts, Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, Jurickson Profar, and Jackson Merrill, who is a candidate for NL Rookie of the Year.
The NL playoff race is still very much up for grabs, with the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, Milwaukee Brewers, and Arizona Diamondbacks all in contention for a Wild Card berth.
Sabathia is eagerly anticipating the upcoming playoffs and believes that the teams with the strongest bullpens will have the best chance of success.
