Yankees, Blue Jays Eye Something More After Recent AL Pennants

AL East division rivals look to end World Series drought for the powerful division.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 8:41pm

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The AL East hasn't produced a World Series champion since 2018, the longest drought in the history of this competitive division. The Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees are back to chase a championship again, while Boston and Baltimore also have the potential to be very good. With money, star power, and several talented teams, the AL East is poised for a possible World Series title this year.

Why it matters

The AL East is one of the most competitive divisions in baseball, with several teams capable of making deep playoff runs. The lack of a World Series champion from the division in nearly a decade has been notable, and this season presents an opportunity for one of the powerhouse teams to finally break through and win it all.

The details

The Blue Jays came close last year, leading the Dodgers by two runs in the eighth inning of Game 7 of the World Series before Los Angeles rallied to win in 11 innings. The Yankees, led by slugger Aaron Judge, are counting on the return of ace Gerrit Cole from Tommy John surgery to boost their rotation. Boston has added impressive lefties Garrett Crochet and Ranger Suarez, while the Orioles made a big free agent splash by signing slugger Pete Alonso.

  • The AL East hasn't produced a World Series champion since 2018.
  • The Toronto Blue Jays led the Los Angeles Dodgers by two runs in the eighth inning of Game 7 of the 2025 World Series before the Dodgers rallied to win in 11 innings.
  • Gerrit Cole is expected to make his season debut for the Yankees in late May or early June after missing the 2025 season following Tommy John surgery.

The players

Aaron Judge

The game's preeminent offensive force and a key player for the New York Yankees.

Gerrit Cole

A Yankees starting pitcher who is expected to return from Tommy John surgery in late May or early June.

Bo Bichette

A former member of the Toronto Blue Jays who has since departed the team.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

A slugger for the Toronto Blue Jays who is still in his prime.

Gunnar Henderson

A young core player for the Baltimore Orioles.

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The takeaway

The AL East is primed for a potential World Series champion this season, with several talented teams vying to end the division's nearly decade-long drought. The Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Orioles all have the potential to make a deep playoff run, setting up an exciting race in one of baseball's most competitive divisions.