Yankees Get Big Break Before World Series Opener

Timing Is Everything

In a bit of fortunate timing for New York, the Yankees will have an extra day of rest before the opener of the World Series. Game 1, which was originally scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 25, has been postponed to Wednesday, Oct. 26, due to rain in the forecast for Houston. This gives the Yankees an extra day to rest and prepare for the Astros, who will have had two days of rest since their ALCS Game 4 win over the Red Sox on Saturday.

Starting Pitching Advantage

The extra day of rest could be a big advantage for the Yankees, especially when it comes to their starting pitching. Gerrit Cole, who is expected to start Game 1 for the Yankees, will now have an extra day to rest and recover. This could give him an edge over Astros starter Justin Verlander, who will be pitching on short rest. Verlander pitched Game 4 of the ALCS on Saturday and threw 91 pitches.

Bullpen Advantage

The extra day of rest could also give the Yankees a bullpen advantage. The Yankees have a deep and rested bullpen, while the Astros' bullpen has been taxed in the ALCS. The Astros have used their bullpen heavily in the playoffs, and several of their relievers are likely to be unavailable for Game 1.

Injury Updates

The extra day of rest could also help the Yankees get some of their injured players healthy. Aaron Judge, who has been dealing with a calf injury, could be ready to return to the lineup for Game 1. Giancarlo Stanton, who has been out with a hamstring injury, is also expected to be available for the World Series.

Home Field Advantage

The extra day of rest could also give the Yankees a home-field advantage in the World Series. The Yankees will host the first two games of the series at Yankee Stadium, and they will have the chance to take an early lead in the series before heading to Houston for Games 3, 4, and 5.