| Bryan Leonard's AL Playoff Game of the Month |
| 932 Houston at NY YankeesLosing the division title to the Rangers was a big blow to the Astros chances of advancing far into the playoffs. Not only do they have to play this one off contest against the Yankees, but they must do so on the road. Believe it or not the Astros 33-48 road record was the absolute worst in the entire American League. So the team that faltered down the stretch because of experience now is put into its worst role in a do or die contest. No thank you. While Dallas Keuchel has been close to automatic pitching at home, its been a different story on the road. A 1.46 ERA at home as opposed to a 3.77 ERA and a 5-8 record away from Houston. To top it off he has never pitched in the postseason and he will be coming back on only three days rest. The Yankees have a lot of veterans on this team with a nice mix of youngsters. New York is a well balanced team with a winning record at home as well as the road. Tanaka had a winning record pitching both at home and on the road. He was a mainstay in the Japanese League and has pitching in this type of environment before. While Tanaka has battled injuries he returns for this game on his regular pitching schedule. PLAY NY YANKEES |