Make New York Post a Preferred Source The Post’s staff makes their predictions for the Yankees-Rays ALDS.
Jon Heyman: The Yankees rotation couldn’t be in better shape, and the extra days off don’t hurt, either. They’re also looking better with the bats lately too. YANKEES IN 4.
Greg Joyce: It won’t be nearly as easy as the wild-card series was, but the Yankees rotation shoulders the load again, allowing them to survive the Rays’ dominance at Tropicana Field. YANKEES IN 5.
Cam Schlittler walks back to the dugout after completing the sixth inning in the Yankees’ Game 2 win over the Red Sox in their AL wild-card series. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post Dan Martin: The Rays have home-field advantage and the Yankees are almost certain to be without Aaron Judge, but the Rays are built for a long season, not a short playoff series. YANKEES IN 5.
Mark W. Sanchez: The Rays offense will put constant pressure on the Yankees defense, which has not been a great strength of the team. RAYS IN 5.
Joel Sherman: The Yankees must limit mistakes, especially at The Trop. But their rotation strength and some iffiness with the Rays getting the ball from their starters to terrific closer Bryan Baker opens enough of an offensive avenue for the Yankees to advance. YANKEES IN 5.
Closer Bryan Baker throws a pitch during the ninth inning of the Rays’ win over the Yankees on Sept. 22, 2026 in The Bronx. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Mike Vaccaro: Unlike the pillow fight they just enjoyed with the Red Sox, the Yankees know well just how good the Rays are. I expect both teams to hold serve. And that bodes well for the team that will host do-or-die Game 5. RAYS IN 5.
