GUIDE: Yankees return home in quest for American League pennant vs. Houston

 
 
The Yankees were the lone playoff team to sweep their division series opponent. Now they get a bigger challenge: the Houston Astros, who had baseball's best record in 2019. With a rested roster, and some big names back from injury, can the Bombers win their first American League pennant since 2009?
*If necessary
GAME 3
HIGHLIGHTS:
GAME 2
HIGHLIGHTS:
GAME 1
HIGHLIGHTS:
 
PHOTOS: Yankees in the ALCS
Tale of the tape:
2019 head-to-head record: The Yankees were 3-4 vs. Houston during the 2019 regular season.
Playoff history: This series is a rematch of the 2017 ALCS, which Houston won in seven games on their way to a World Series title. The Astros also beat the Yankees in the 2015 AL Wild Card Game.
World Series wins: The Yankees have been world champions 27 times, most recently in 2009. The Astros have won one World Series, in 2017.
Rest vs. Rust: The Yankees were the only team to not have to go five games to advance to a league championship series. Amid the longer break, the Yanks will get Aaron Hicks and CC Sabathia back from injuries.
Offensive statistical leaders: AVG- NYY's DJ LeMahieu, .327. RBI- HOU's Alex Bregman, 112. HR-  HOU's Alex Bregman, 41. SB-  TIE -- HOU's Alex Marisnick, NYY's Brett Gardner, 10.
Pitching statistical leaders (starters)ERA- HOU's Gerrit Cole, 2.50. SO- HOU's Gerrit Cole, 326. WINS- HOU's Justin Verlander, 21.
Pitching statistical leaders (bullpen): ERA- HOU's Will Harris, 1.50. SO- HOU's Josh James, 100. SAVES- HOU's Roberto Osuna, 38.
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