As the Yankees practiced at the stadium Tuesday, Game 1 of the Orioles-Royals wild-card series was playing on the video board.
But Aaron Boone insisted privately that he has no interest in rooting for one of them to advance to the ALDS to face the Yankees starting Saturday.
“I'm always careful about what you guys want,” the manager said Tuesday before Yankees practice. “I tell the coaches that all the time, when we were watching a game in June and you saw your district rival playing another team; I'm like, “Hey, be careful what you wish for.” That team might knock us out. 'So I always think, 'Let's do it our way. Whoever comes, we'll do our best to prepare.' ”
The Royals won the first game, 1-0, at Camden Yards.
Coach Boone probably doesn't care if both teams beat each other up for three games and wear out each other's pitching staffs by the time either one gets to Yankee Stadium.
For better or worse, the Yankees are much more familiar with the Orioles, their American League East foes who went 5-8 this season. On the other hand, they had 5 wins and 2 losses against the Royals.
Meanwhile, the Yankees were trying to focus on taking advantage of the time off. Tuesday's practice focused on basics such as infield and outfield defense, pitcher defense practice, and batting practice.
Gerrit Cole, who is scheduled to start in Game 1, also pitched one inning of live batting practice against Jose Trevino, Ben Rice and Jon Barty.
Anthony Rizzo (broken finger) was still wearing a brace on his right hand Tuesday, but Boone said the veteran first baseman likely won't attempt baseball activities until later in the week.
On Tuesday, receiving a ground ball at first base, Rizzo watched and gave instructions to Oswaldo Cabrera, Rice and Berti.
Aside from the question of whether Rizzo will be able to make the roster (Boone has called him a “long shot” for the ALDS), the Yankees still have a problem with the last pitcher they use and possibly the last. We are currently deciding on a bench seat. Go with 13 pitchers/13 position players, or 12 and 14.
Jake Cousins (pectoral strain) pitched a bullpen session on Tuesday and if he bounces back well, he could face hitters on Thursday and be on track to return from the IL to the ALDS.
