The New York Yankees are getting hot at just the right time as they head into their series with the Toronto Blue Jays atop the AL Wild Card standings and on a six-game winning streak.
How have the Yankees been able to right what appeared to be a sinking ship over the last week?
Perhaps it was their good-luck charm: a new pet turtle.
According to Sam Borden of ESPN.com, Yankees pitcher Nestor Cortes bought a small turtle, named Bronxie, from a neighborhood pet store after the team had lost two out of three to Cleveland last week.
Since Bronxie has joined the Yankees’ clubhouse — taking strolls across the interlocking-NY carpeting before games and capturing the attention of players like DJ LeMahieu, who is said enjoys just staring at Bronxie — the Bombers have yet to lose.
Listen to New York sports talk now on Audacy and shop the latest Yankees team gear
“Everyone is aware of what’s happening lately,” Brett Gardner told Borden, referring to the six-game win streak since Bronxie’s adoption. “Lucky charm, whatever you want to call it; I know a lot of guys believe there is a connection here. At the end of it, it would be great if we could go out and get him a little World Series ring.”
Bronxie made the road trip to Boston, where the Yankees leapfrogged the Red Sox in the standings behind a monstrous performance from slugger Giancarlo Stanton — who became the first Yankee since Mickey Mantle to hit three or more home runs and at least 10 RBI in a three-game span against the Red Sox.
There was some debate whether or not to bring Bronxie to Toronto following the trip to Boston, but after Sunday’s comeback victory that put the Yankees firmly atop the wild-card standings, the Yankees’ pet turtle was traveling north of the border as they aim to make it seven in a row with their new mascot.
Related
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram