The Yankees are in great shape against pesky Rays — particularly if they’re sharp in critical area

Jon Heyman argues that the New York Yankees are well-positioned to defeat the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League Division Series if they avoid fundamental mistakes on bunt plays and small-ball nuances. Heyman asserts that advancing past Tampa Bay gives the Yankees a favorable path toward the World Series against an AL Central opponent.

The Yankees have chosen Gerrit Cole to start Game 1 instead of Carlos Rodon, a decision Heyman questions given Rodon's MLB-best .146 batting average against and 1.89 ERA since his return. Furthermore, Heyman notes the Rays' lower offensive numbers against left-handed pitching, highlighting Rodon's recent two-hit, eight-strikeout performance over eight innings against Tampa Bay.