MINNEAPOLIS — The Yankees left New York last week for a 10-game road trip, clearly aware their streak of 13 consecutive playoff appearances was in jeopardy.
After going 3-7, they’re stumbling back to the Bronx in worse shape.
“It’s pretty late for us,” said Johnny Damon, who went 0-for-4 in Wednesday’s 4-2 loss to the Minnesota Twins.
Delmon Young hit a three-run homer for the second straight day for the Twins. Meanwhile, the Yankees were sloppy in the field, outpitched and outhit — problems that kept cropping up in their swing through Texas, Anaheim and the Metrodome.
“We have to play better. I know we played some pretty good teams, but we’re going to have to beat the good teams if we’re going to be able to get to the playoffs,” Damon said.
Kevin Slowey (9-8) smoothly worked the corners of the strike zone over six innings for Minnesota, surrendering three hits, one run and one walk.
Joe Nathan sealed the victory in the ninth with his 32nd save. The Yankees went 17-for-80 with runners in scoring position on the trip.
While praising Slowey, Damon gave the perfect summary of his team’s struggles during this injury-filled, inconsistent season.
“It seemed like he had an easy time with us, and nobody should have an easy time with us,” Damon said.
