New York becomes the first AL team to 40 wins in 2026.
CLEVELAND — The Yankees took this game and the series against the Guardians by a score of 3-2 and became the first American League team to 40 wins, with a 40-27 record.
Gerrit Cole was only able to go four innings, laboring through the night. He threw a lot of pitches in the outing, as well as a long inning due to a misplay on the infield.
Spencer Jones hit his first MLB home run in the second inning today, a two-run shot. He became the first Yankee to hit his first MLB home run at Progressive Field since Derek Jeter in 1996.
Turning Point
A runner on second with two outs for the Guardians in the third inning. Chase DeLauter lit a sharp liner that a shortstop needs to make the play on. Anthony Volpe did not. The play was scored a hit and led to the Guardians tying the game in the third inning for the second straight game.
Star Performances
Jazz Chisholm Jr. had the pivotal hit in this game. Leading off the eighth inning, Chisholm Jr. used the bat of Aaron Judge for the second time this week, and for the second time, he homered. It was the first time this season Chisholm Jr. has homered against a left-handed pitcher.
With the Chisholm Jr. home run, the Yankees now have 5 go-ahead HRs in the 8th inning or later this season, tied for 2nd most in MLB, according to Katie Sharp. She added that the Yankees also have 12 go-ahead hits in the 8th inning or later, 2nd most in MLB.
Defense/Little Things
The Yankees need to play their best defense at all times without Judge’s bat in the lineup. Jose Caballero needs to be getting the reps at shortstop. His bat is better than Volpe’s and defensively he’s much better than Volpe has been. It was Volpe’s costly play that made Cole labor through his outing. It did not help that Volpe was 0-4 at the plate as well.
Box Score
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What’s Next?
The Yankees and the Guardians will play their series finale tomorrow afternoon. The Yankees will send LHP Carlos Rodón to the mound, looking for some length. Rodón will be opposed by LHP Parker Messick (6-2, 2.40). First pitch will be at 1:05PM on the YES Network.