One down, one narrative to go.

The Yankees took an essential step by keeping their season alive on Wednesday night. This victory moved them to Thursday, providing a chance to dispel the growing belief that they can’t win crucial series in this era that they now have the opportunity to clinch.

There are nine innings to either progress or maintain the same old Yankees reputation. Nine innings to prove they can compete in October against equally strong opponents. Nine innings to either fly to Toronto or fall apart, which would reignite calls for the dismissal of Brian Cashman and Aaron Boone and raise questions about the team’s resilience.

The Yankees secured these crucial nine innings through a collective effort on Wednesday. Carlos Rodón delivered adequately in the rotation, while Fernando Cruz, Devin Williams, and David Bednar provided stellar relief pitching.