But the Yankees are not a playoff-built team, not quite yet. They're 39-15 in blowout games and 12-17 in one-run contests. They are 3-6 (though outscoring 60-55) against their probable first-round opponent, the Angels. Take out the 12-0 win, and they are 2-6, outscored 55-48. They've but four shutouts, but have been blanked eight times.
And they carry a road record of 31-35.
Contrast that with the Angels. 22-16 in blowouts, 18-14 in one-run games. Only 35-34 at home, but they make up for it with a 44-20 at home. They've dominated the Mariners, going 11-4. They've been shutout six times, but own eight.
Now, with a younger, more ferocious bullpen and a solidified rotation, plus a more stable (younger) lineup, things may change. Just don't go popping those corks yet.
Except, do celebrate the Red Sox being given a dose of their own medicine (Joba throwing in, calls going against them). That was a sweet sweep.
