Yankees swept the Cardinals on the road to climb to 67-57, reaching 10 games over .500 for the first time since August 1. The win push narrows the gap in the AL East and tightens the wild-card race, with NYY sitting 3.5 games ahead of Cleveland for the final AL slot while closing ground on Toronto and Boston in the division. An off day follows before six crucial divisional games, starting with two in Tampa and then four at Yankee Stadium against Boston. Aaron Boone stressed the resilient belief of this group, noting leadership through pressure and a readiness to prove it down the stretch. With six weeks left, the schedule only grows more meaningful as divisional foes loom.

The Rays loom next, a club that has scuffled lately, batting a league-worst .220 since July 20 and scoring only about 3.5 per game in that stretch. NYY has fared well against Tampa this year (7-4), including 3-1 at Steinbrenner Field. Tuesday features Rodón vs Baz, and Wednesday pairs Rasmussen with Schlittler, with Caballero’s speed a subtle but critical edge after the deadline move. The Red Sox series in the Bronx takes on extra significance as both clubs chase the top wild-card position, while Goldschmidt’s Cardinals provide a reminder of the depth fueling the playoff chase.