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<\/p>\nThe American League East race continues Wednesday night as the New York Yankees look to rebound against the division-leading Tampa Bay Rays in the third game of a pivotal four-game series.<\/p>\n
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Jul 7, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Richie Palacios (1) beats the tag to score a run in the second inning against the New York Yankees at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images<\/p>\n
How to Watch Yankees vs Rays<\/p>\n
Date: Wednesday, July 8, 2026<\/p>\n
Time: 6:40 PM ET<\/p>\n
Stream: Prime Video (try for free<\/a>)<\/p>\n The Yankees have struggled to find consistency over the past two weeks, dropping 10 of their last 12 games after Tuesday\u2019s 6-4 defeat. New York\u2019s offense has been plagued by strikeouts during the series, though Ben Rice continued his breakout campaign with a three-run home run in the loss. The Yankees are expected to hand the ball to Gerrit Cole as they try to slow Tampa Bay\u2019s momentum and gain ground in the division before the All-Star break.<\/p>\n Live Stream Yankees vs Rays with Prime Video<\/a><\/p>\n The Rays, meanwhile, have strengthened their grip atop the AL East thanks to timely hitting and strong pitching throughout the series. Yandy D\u00edaz helped lead Tuesday\u2019s victory with a home run and two RBIs, while Tampa Bay\u2019s pitching staff piled up another dominant performance against New York\u2019s lineup. With first place on the line and the rivalry heating up, Wednesday\u2019s matchup presents another important opportunity for both clubs as the Yankees try to avoid falling further behind and the Rays look to continue their impressive run atop the division.<\/p>\n