Things looked so promising early on Thursday night, the Yankees carrying a lead into the middle of the game, just as their rivals in Toronto trailed against the Astros. How quickly it all came crashing down, the Yankees imploding in spectacular fashion, and the Blue Jays rallying in the ninth before defeating Houston in extras. They’ve shaken off bad defeats before during this up-and-down season, but this one hurts, leaving the team three back in the AL East with 18 to play.

It’s a loaded day on the site ahead of another big game. Sam will have the Rivalry Roundup, while Matt’s entry in the 2000 Yankees diary features the debut of a young pitcher. Also, Peter’s At-bat of the Week showcases superlative work from Ben Rice, and Madison chronicles the comeback trail taken by Carlos Rodón. And

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