Despite high-profile stars like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, the New York Yankees have faced inconsistency this season, struggling to keep pace with AL East rivals Toronto Blue Jays and Boston Red Sox. Legendary sportscaster John Sterling believes that the New York Mets, led by Juan Soto, have a better chance of reaching the World Series in October. Sterling shared his views during a discussion with insiders Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata on WFAN this past Wednesday, citing the Mets’ lineup depth as a key advantage.

“It’s possible [the Yankees make it to the World Series]. If [Giancarlo] Stanton, who’s hitting better than he’s ever hit, if he lays off the pitch that’s low outside, no telling what he’ll do. I figure [Aaron] Judge will jump back. Yeah, the Yankees have a lot of home run power. What they need is very good pitching, because I think they have a good enough bullpen,”

Sterling said.

He continued,

“I think the Mets can go to the World Series. They have a terrific team. The top six hitters in the Mets lineup are terrific. Then, the young kids, even though they’re not terrific hitters yet, they all do one thing, they can hit it out, all four of them. I’d say the Mets have a better chance than the Yanks of going to the World Series,”

Sterling added.

Yankees and Mets Fighting for Wild Card Positions as Season Progresses

Initially, both the Yankees and Mets had strong starts to the 2024 season, controlling the top spots in the AL East and NL East divisions respectively. However, both teams have seen their leads diminish, with the Yankees now sitting third in the AL East with a 64-57 record, and the Mets holding second place in the NL East at 64-56. Their most viable path to the postseason is now through the wild card, but both franchises face increasing pressure as competition intensifies.

The Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds are closing in fast on both New York teams, capitalizing on recent slumps. The Yankees have lost six of their last ten games, while the Mets’ recent performance has been more troubling, with just two wins in their last ten outings. This decline has enhanced uncertainty about both teams’ ability to secure playoff berths.

Implications for New York Fans as Postseason Hopes Hang in the Balance

With time running out in the regular season, the pressure mounts for both New York teams to regain form and secure playoff spots. For the Yankees, reliance on key hitters like Judge and Stanton to bounce back, as well as the pitching staff to improve, will be critical. On the Mets’ side, Juan Soto and the team’s young hitters offer promise, but sustained consistency remains necessary to fulfill Sterling’s optimistic projection.

The outcome of this race carries significant weight for both fan bases, who have endured quiet frustration after strong season starts. Should either team fall short, the backlash will be considerable given initial expectations and the talent available. Meanwhile, Sterling’s endorsement of the Mets’ chances adds an intriguing layer to how the postseason narrative in New York may unfold.