A year ago, the New York Yankees were knocked out of playoff contention with a week to go in the regular season, ending a string of six straight postseason appearances. Remembering what that was like made wrapping up a playoff berth with more than a week left this time feel that much better. "A lot of things have come together. Probably better health overall. Definitely an added focus for guys that were coming off tough years, and simply put, we're better," New York manager Aaron Boone said. "We weren't a great team last year, and this team has a chance to do something special." After spending last year sitting at home when the postseason arrived, the Yankees earned their place in the 2024 playoffs with a 2-1 win over the Seattle Mariners in 10 innings Wednesday night. Nestor Cortes, who pitched six shutout innings, said this Yankees team is using the sting of last season as motivation heading into October. "Last year we were out of the playoffs. Sour...