New York Yankees Celebrate Postseason Berth Amidst Team Resilience
By Jorge Castillo, September 24, 2025, 12:59 AM ET
Location: New York, USA
In a jubilant scene in the home clubhouse, José Caballero—who joined the Yankees just 54 days ago—proudly donned his championship belt, a token of appreciation for being named the player of the game after an explosive victory over the Chicago White Sox. As festivities ensued, he relished the moment following his clutch two-out, walk-off single that propelled the Yankees to a 2-1 win, securing their 60th postseason appearance in franchise history.
“This is the best time to have the belt,” Caballero declared confidently, vowing not to relinquish it.
With this win, New York gained momentum in their quest for the American League East title, inching closer behind the Toronto Blue Jays, who lost earlier in the evening. Although Toronto currently holds the tiebreaker, the Yankees’ path to a 22nd division title remains within reach, especially as the regular season winds down with just five games left.
“This October, we’re here to prove a point,” asserted second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr.
This marks the Yankees’ eighth postseason appearance in the last nine years, adding another chapter to their storied legacy in Major League Baseball. Currently, the Yankees need only three wins to guarantee home-field advantage in the upcoming wild-card series, a destination that seems almost foreign after they last played a wild-card series in 2022.
“Our ultimate goal is to win the division,” noted star player Aaron Judge as teammates celebrated his contributions with chants and festivities.
Despite having one of the league’s most expensive rosters, the season began with uncertainty after key players Juan Soto and Gerrit Cole faced significant losses to free agency and injury, respectively. However, the team has shown remarkable resilience, navigating a turbulent path throughout the season.
Their journey has unfolded in three distinct phases: a strong start with a 42-25 record, a mid-season slump at 22-31, and a resurgence with 25-12 since mid-August, culminating in Tuesday’s celebration.
Manager Aaron Boone reflects, “It’s been a challenging year, but looking around the locker room, we’re getting healthy. I still believe our best baseball is ahead of us.”
This adaptability has been essential, showcased by the emergence of players like Trent Grisham and Cody Bellinger, who stepped up to fill gaps left by injuries. Moreover, after recognizing the need for more depth, General Manager Brian Cashman made strategic moves at the trade deadline, enhancing both the lineup and bullpen.
“It’s a special culture here,” said Bellinger. “We believe in each other, and that’s the key.”
While Caballero made a critical impact in securing postseason play, he remains focused on what lies ahead. “We are coming for the big thing,” he affirmed as the Yankees prepare for another shot at a World Series championship.
As they set their sights on glory, the Yankees stand poised for a thrilling October, ready to chase title No. 28.