Obviously not the way you wanna start a series, holding the best offense in baseball to just four runs in two games and not win either game. Aaron Judge and Gary Sanchez look absolutely lost at the plate. However, we did win the last playoff series we were down 0-2 in, people forget that. For a comeback to happen, the Yanks need to get back on track tonight. Let’s see what that consists of.

Another strong outing from CC

CC Sabathia has been fantastic thus far in the playoffs, and he needs to come up big again tonight. Not only does his start have a huge impact on the game tonight, but with games 4 and 5 (if necessary) happening in the next two days as well, the bullpen can’t afford to be completely exhausted tonight. Six innings from the big man tonight would be much appreciated.

Take an Early Lead

Jumping out to an early lead would help the Yankees get momentum, and get the home crowd into the game. The Astros saw a completely dead crowd by the time they brought the ALDS to Fenway last week, whereas the Yankees’ home crowd clearly rattled the Indians at certain points in Games 3 and 4. Let’s see if they can do the same to the Astros tonight.

Calm the Young Guys’ Nerves

For all the “Judge is overrated” talk, he is not THIS bad. He and Sanchez are both clearly pressing. They need to relax and see some pitches (or in Judge’s case, hop on the early strikes). The Yankees will not win this series with both of these guys not hitting, plain and simple.

Keep Altuve Off Base

Easier said than done for sure, but this guy is always making things happen on base. Keeping him off the basepaths would be huge for the Yanks.

Don’t Bank on the Long Ball

The Yankees have been one of the best home run hitting teams in the league all year, but that also puts them at risk when no one gets the big hit. They need to work counts, draw walks, move baserunners, and get hits with RISP to get this offense going again.

I’m not hitting the panic button yet. 8:08 first pitch in the Bronx. Let’s go Yanks baby.