MLB Playoffs》How do small-market teams defeat the 27-time giant Yankees? Rays coach reveals winning philosophy

The Rays swept the Yankees in the American League Division Series to advance. (Information photo, Faxin Establishment)

[Sports Center/Comprehensive Report] The Rays, the champions of the American League East, swept the Yankees in the wild-card round with 18 points in three divisional games, advancing to the American League Championship Series for the first time in six years. Rays head coach Kevin Cash believes that the team's ability to flexibly adjust tactics and strategies according to game situations and successfully execute them is the main reason why they can win.

The Rays finished the season with a record of 98 wins and 64 losses, winning the American League East championship. They faced the Yankees in the division series and completely suppressed the Yankees in pitching, fielding and defense. Rays head coach Cash believes that what the players do very well is that they can make the best adjustments according to the situation on the field and successfully execute the tactics.

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Cash gave an example: "When the opponent's starting pitcher is in good condition and pitches well, or we face some unfavorable combinations, we have the ability to immediately change our strategy and try to put the first batter on base, or put the runner on second base, and then advance him to the next base. Or when the opponent's pitcher has a strong strikeout ability, but there is a man on third base and less than two outs, we will put pressure on the opponent's defense and try to bunt to advance, forcing the pitcher and fielding players to react."

Cash pointed out that he does not ignore these details, which is the characteristic of our team. Sometimes you have to compete with your opponent for longer firepower, but sometimes you have to fight back point by point.

The Yankees' total team payroll at the start of the season was as high as $303 million, ranking third in the major leagues. In comparison, the Rays' total payroll was only $91 million. Cash admitted frankly that they don't care about this matter at all, which also fully demonstrates the excellence of the players. They will not focus on the salary gap, but enter the court every day and do their best to help the team win the game that night.

Cash also added: "I know the baseball world is talking about this, but at the end of the day, the key is to have a group of good players who come together this season and find different ways to win."