Carlos Rodon started strong, striking out the side in the first inning of Game 2 of the AL Division Series at Yankee Stadium. However, his momentum shifted dramatically after Salvador Perez hit a leadoff home run in the fourth inning, marking a turning point in the game.
This home run sparked a four-run inning for the Kansas City Royals, leading to Rodon’s early exit as the Royals secured a 4-2 victory. With the series now tied at 1-1, the best-of-five ALDS will move to Kauffman Stadium for Games 3 and 4, as the Royals aim to avoid a return trip to New York for a potential Game 5.
Despite Bobby Witt Jr.’s continued struggles at the plate, going 0-for-5, the Royals managed to pile up 11 hits, taking a 4-1 lead into the ninth inning. Jazz Chisholm Jr. hit a homer against Royals closer Lucas Erceg to bring the Yankees closer, but Jon Berti’s two-out single was not enough, as Gleyber Torres grounded out to end the game.
In the eighth inning, the Yankees had a chance to rally, but Giancarlo Stanton’s scorching line drive resulted in a double play, extinguishing their hopes. The Yankees’ Alex Verdugo reached base earlier in the inning, and with the top of their order coming up, it seemed they might claw back into contention.
Jon Berti made an impressive debut at first base, making a crucial defensive play that prevented runs during the Royals’ sixth inning. With runners at the corners and a lefty on the mound, Berti executed an unassisted double play.
Manager Matt Quatraro turned to his bullpen early in the fifth inning as starter Cole Ragans had accumulated 87 pitches, making it a strategic decision as the Royals tried to protect their 4-1 lead.
Rodon’s struggles came after a promising start, where he displayed his usual dominance but faltered following the home run from Perez. The Royals added two more runs in the same inning before Rodon exited the game.
The action began with a scoring drive from the Yankees as Stanton brought in Torres with a single. The Yankees’ performance was marred by missed opportunities in the first inning, reminiscent of their struggles in Game 1.
Notably, former player Willie Randolph threw the ceremonial first pitch, connecting the past with the present.
In a lineup change, Jon Berti got his first start at first base, filling in for the injured Anthony Rizzo. Berti’s limited playing time this season was a concern, but his performance leading up to the series convinced manager Aaron Boone of his readiness, considering the challenges posed by the Royals’ lefty starter.
As the series transitions to Kansas City, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their strategies to advance further in the postseason.