The New York Yankees delivered an offensive explosion on Saturday night, outlasting the St. Louis Cardinals 12-8 in a series-clinching win.

For New York, the victory carried more weight than just another August contest. With Cleveland falling to Atlanta, the Yankees gained a 2.5-game cushion for the American League’s final Wild Card spot.

In a race this tight, every inch of breathing room matters, and Saturday’s triumph provided just that.

Rice ignites the offense

The night belonged to Ben Rice, who turned Busch Stadium into his personal showcase. The rookie first baseman drove in seven runs while collecting a homer, double, single, walk, and two runs scored.

Batting in front of Aaron Judge, Rice saw plenty of hittable pitches and never wasted a chance. His OPS now sits at .804, an im

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