Yankees vs. Royals Prediction, Odds and Likely Pitchers for ALDS Game 4 (Can Yanks

The New York Yankees took advantage of a great game from Giancarlo Stanton in Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead in the ALDS series against the Kansas City Royals. This puts them in position to win the away series in Game 4.

Stanton's game-winning home run in the eighth inning was enough to get the job done, as the New York bullpen threw 4.1 innings of scoreless ball to secure the win.

Now the Yankees are favored in Game 4 on the road as both teams return their Game 1 starters – Gerrit Cole and Michael Wacha – on Thursday night.

Every game in this series has been decided by two runs or fewer, and the Yankees have yet to get off to a strong start from a starter. Can their bullpen continue to save the day?

Here's a breakdown of the odds, likely pitchers, key players to watch, and my best bet for Game 4.

Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook.

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New York Yankees

Giancarlo Stanton: The Yankees slugger saved them in Game 3 by yielding three hits and two runs batted in, including the go-ahead home run in the eighth inning. Stanton may not be able to move like he once did, but he's still a major threat on the field with his strength.

Kansas City Royals

Michael Wacha: The Royals started Wacha in Game 1, and he struggled with his command as he walked three batters and allowed three runs in four innings. The Royals retired Wacha early and their bullpen ultimately failed to lead them to a win. Can he get back on his feet at home?

If the Yankees want to wrap up this series on Thursday, Gerrit Cole will have to pitch better than he did in Game 1.

The Yankees ace allowed seven hits and two walks in just five innings and was knocked down while jumping. This is a concern heading into Game 4, especially since the Yankees used a lot of their bullpen in Game 3.

Will Aaron Boone be willing to return to pitchers like Tommy Kahnle, Luke Weaver and Clay Holmes even though they all had multiple outs in Game 3?

He may like it when the Yankees are on top, but Cole has to lead the Yankees in this game.

Wacha struggled a bit in his first start against the Yanks in Game 1, and the Royals had a problem running through New York the entire series.

Each of those games was close and the Royals are the best run line team in MLB this season (93-74).

I expect this to be a close game as well, especially since this is the first time in this series that every bullpen is taking a short break.

Pick: Royals +1.5 (-125)

Odds are updated regularly and are subject to change.

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