Yankees' Stanton Emphasizes First-Round Bye Importance Amid AL East Tie with Blue Jays

Giancarlo Stanton has been a pivotal force for the New York Yankees as they vie for the top spot in the AL East with just three games remaining in the regular season, tied with the Toronto Blue Jays. Stanton's recent performances, including a three-run double that helped the Yankees sweep the Chicago White Sox, underscore his importance to the team's push for a first-round postseason bye. He emphasized the value of this bye, citing the need for rest and mental breaks for players facing the rigors of October baseball, drawing on the Yankees' 2024 experience when the bye contributed to their World Series appearance. Stanton also expressed his support for teammate Aaron Judge in the MVP race over Cal Raleigh, highlighting Judge's superior overall numbers despite Raleigh's impressive home run tally. The Yankees, who have won five straight games and improved their record to 91-68, recognize the critical nature of executing well in their final series against the Baltimore Orioles to secure the division crown and the playoff advantage it confers. Manager Aaron Boone and the team acknowledge Stanton's presence as a key factor in their late-season surge and potential postseason success.