The New York Yankees (78–62) host the Toronto Blue Jays (81–59) tonight to open a three-game series that could prove to be decisive in the AL East race.

The Yankees sit three games behind Toronto. A sweep by New York would even the standings, while a Blue Jays sweep would create a six-game gap. With only a few weeks left in the season, this final head-to-head matchup between the two rivals carries massive weight.

The Boston Red Sox also remain in the mix, just a half-game back of the Yankees. But Boston’s momentum took a hit with the injury to Roman Anthony, who will probably be out for at least the regular season. Since his call-up in June, the rookie had sparked their offense and helped push them back into contention.

The Yankees’ own catalytic rookie Cam Schlittler takes the mound tonight. The 24-year-old has been sensational since settling in after his first few starts, posting a 1.60 ERA across six August outings and allowing just two runs over his last 23.2 innings. He nearly threw a perfect game against Tampa Bay, underscoring the impact of the Bronx’s rookie arms this summer.

Veteran Kevin Gausman get the start for Toronto. He owns a 3.75 ERA and an 8–10 record. His season has been defined by extremes — dominant at times, disastrous at others. He blanked opponents in two starts in July but was also tagged for six runs in another.

Against New York this year, Gausman was shelled for six runs in his first outing, then steadied himself with two strong performances in July (2 ER in 5 innings, then 1 run in 7).

Predictions

Schlittler has been the steadier arm of late, and his form gives the Yankees a slight edge. Expect a tight, low-scoring game decided by the bullpens. And with the Yankee bullpen, it’s always a game of Russian roulette.

Prediction: Yankees 4, Blue Jays 3

Starting Lineups

Toronto Blue Jays

1. George Springer – DH

2. Addison Barger – RF

3. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – 1B

4. Bo Bichette – SS

5. Daulton Varsho – CF

6. Alejandro Kirk – C

7. Nathan Lukes – LF

8. Ernie Clement – 3B

9. Andrés Giménez – 2B

Starting Pitcher: Kevin Gausman (RHP) — 8–10, 3.75 ERA

New York Yankees

1. Trent Grisham – CF

2. Ben Rice – C

3. Aaron Judge – RF

4. Cody Bellinger – LF

5. Giancarlo Stanton – DH

6. Jazz Chisholm Jr. – 2B

7. Paul Goldschidt – 1B

8. Ryan McMahon – 3B

9. Jose Caballero – SS

Starting Pitcher: Cam Schlittler (RHP) — 2–2, 2.61 ERA

How to Watch Blue Jays vs. Yankees

First pitch for tonight’s game between the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees is set for 7:05 PM Eastern at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.

The game airs live nationally on the MLB Network for out-of-market viewers and MLB.TV. Local viewers can tune in on YES, Sportsnet, and TVA Sports.

Toronto Blue Jays vs. New York Yankees

Date: Friday, September 5, 2025

First Pitch: 7:05 PM Eastern

Venue: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY

TV: YES (Yankees), Sportsnet (Blue Jays), MLB Network (out-of-market), TVA Sports (Canada)

Streaming: MLB.TV, Gotham Sports.