Mariners and Yankees Poised for Potential ALCS Showdown

Decades-long rivalry between baseball powerhouses set to resume in 2026 postseason

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The Seattle Mariners and New York Yankees, two of baseball's most storied franchises, are once again on a collision course for a potential American League Championship Series matchup in 2026. The rivalry between these two teams dates back over 30 years, with the Yankees often serving as the roadblock to the Mariners' World Series dreams. As the new season dawns, the stage is set for another epic clash between the two clubs, fueled by lingering resentment, contrasting philosophies, and the unfinished business of the Mariners' quest to finally overcome their Bronx nemesis.

Why it matters

The Mariners-Yankees rivalry is more than just a baseball story - it's a narrative of perseverance, heartbreak, and the eternal search for redemption. For Mariners fans, this potential ALCS showdown represents a chance to finally exorcise the demons of past postseason defeats and prove their team's mettle against the perennial powerhouse from New York. The contrast in approaches between the big-spending Yankees and the Mariners' focus on homegrown talent adds an extra layer of intrigue to the rivalry, making it a battle of philosophies as much as a battle on the diamond.

The details

The roots of this rivalry stretch back to the 1995 ALDS and intensified with the unforgettable 2000 ALCS. The Yankees, with their deep pockets and star-studded rosters, have often been the roadblock to the Mariners' World Series dreams, including the agonizing 2001 ALCS defeat - a season where the Mariners tied the major league record with 116 wins. Last year, the Mariners finally broke through, winning their first division championship since 2001, only to have their hopes dashed once again by the Yankees. This recent loss has only fueled the fire, adding another chapter to a narrative ripe with tension and anticipation.

  • The rivalry's roots run deep, stretching back to the 1995 ALDS.
  • The rivalry intensified with the unforgettable 2000 ALCS.
  • In 2001, the Mariners tied the major league record with 116 wins, but were defeated by the Yankees in the ALCS.
  • Last year, the Mariners won their first division championship since 2001, only to be eliminated by the Yankees in the postseason.
  • The 2026 season is set to dawn with the Mariners and Yankees once again poised as top contenders, setting the stage for a potential ALCS rematch.

The players

Seattle Mariners

A Major League Baseball team based in Seattle, Washington, known for their focus on developing talent through their farm system and supplementing it with affordable free agents.

New York Yankees

A Major League Baseball team based in the Bronx, New York, synonymous with big spending and consistently attracting high-profile free agents.

Aaron Judge

A star outfielder for the New York Yankees who won the 2025 AL MVP award, sparking a debate about whether Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh was the more deserving recipient.

Cal Raleigh

A catcher for the Seattle Mariners who had an impressive 60-homer season in 2025, but was overshadowed by Aaron Judge's overall offensive numbers in the MVP voting.

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What’s next

If both the Mariners and Yankees continue their strong performances, a highly anticipated rematch in the 2026 ALCS seems increasingly likely.

The takeaway

The Mariners-Yankees rivalry is a captivating narrative that transcends the sport of baseball, pitting the established power of the Yankees against the Mariners' quest for redemption. This potential ALCS showdown promises to be a must-watch event, fueled by years of history, contrasting philosophies, and the eternal search for a breakthrough moment.