Alex Verdugo delivered a crucial tiebreaking single in the seventh inning and made a pivotal sliding catch, leading the New York Yankees to a 6-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals in the opening game of their AL Division Series on Saturday night.
In a game marked by constant momentum shifts, both teams showcased their power with two-run home runs from Gleyber Torres of the Yankees and MJ Melendez of the Royals. Kansas City struggled to maintain leads of 1-0, 3-2, and 5-4, while the Yankees could not hold onto their own leads of 2-1 and 4-3. This contest set a postseason record with five lead changes, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed excitement about the thrilling matchup.
The Royals’ pitchers matched their season-high with eight walks, contributing to two runs scored in the fifth inning. The Yankees had a challenging night with runners in scoring position, going 1 for 11 until Verdugo hit a pivotal single against losing pitcher Michael Lorenzen. His hit brought in Jazz Chisholm Jr., who had led off with a single and successfully stole second base, despite a Royals manager Matt Quatraro’s protest regarding the play.
Verdugo’s placement in the lineup, despite being in a hitting slump, was motivated by his defensive abilities. He acknowledged the pressure he felt from fans but received support from his teammates who encouraged him to focus on the playoffs as a chance to redeem his season.
In the fourth inning, Verdugo showcased his defensive skills by making a remarkable sliding catch, preventing the Royals from extending their lead.
Chisholm, new to third base after joining the Yankees mid-season, also contributed defensively with several important plays. Following ace Gerrit Cole’s departure, the Yankees’ bullpen managed to contain the Royals to just one unearned run over four innings, with Clay Holmes earning the win and Luke Weaver securing the save in his first postseason appearance.
Both teams had notable performances; Yankees’ star Aaron Judge struggled at the plate, going 0 for 4 with three strikeouts, while Bobby Witt Jr. of the Royals went 0 for 5, frustrated with a called third strike in the ninth inning. On the offensive end, Juan Soto made an impact, going 3 for 5 and assisting in preventing a run at home plate.
The series continues on Monday night after a day off, with the Yankees, who finished the regular season at the top of the AL, looking to expand their lead against the wild-card Royals. This matchup is historic, as these franchises previously faced off in four playoff series from 1976 to 1980, with the Yankees winning the initial three encounters.
In a statistical reflection, Cole allowed four runs while Wacha from Kansas City resulted in a notable four walks during the game, which proved critical for the Yankees’ scoring opportunities.
Looking forward, Yankees’ Carlos Rodón is set to start Game 2 against Cole Ragans of the Royals, featuring two left-handers on the mound.