Yankees complete series sweep of Guardians in Judge’s absence
The team improves to 5-3 in contests without Aaron Judge, who remains sidelined with a rib injury, as pitching staff restricts Cleveland’s scoring opportunities.
The New York Yankees concluded a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians with an 8-4 victory on Wednesday at Progressive Field, securing a sweep despite the absence of Aaron Judge. The win extends the Yankees’ winning streak to four consecutive games and improves their record to 5-3 in matches played without their two-time defending American League Most Valuable Player. Judge is sidelined for at least two months with a right rib stress fracture.
Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the significant impact of removing the league’s top hitter from the lineup, stating that the team must compensate for the missing production. Despite the loss, Boone noted that the roster has demonstrated the capability to contribute in meaningful ways across various winning scenarios. The team utilised a key double steal during Wednesday’s contest, highlighting an offensive approach that relies on broader participation rather than singular power hitting.
The pitching staff played a pivotal role in the victory, limiting Cleveland to a .107 batting average with runners in scoring position, recording just three hits in 28 at-bats. Starter Carlos Rodon faced early pressure but delivered a 1-2-3 fifth inning and a 1-2-3 sixth inning, allowing Boone to maintain his rotation integrity for the upcoming series in Toronto. Relief pitcher Ryan Weathers was on standby due to a previous rainout and an off-day, but was not required to enter the game.
Offensive contributions were distributed among several key players. Cody Bellinger provided a crucial hit in the 10th inning of Monday’s extra-inning victory, while Trent Grisham maintained strong offensive performance throughout the series. Paul Goldschmidt recorded five hits in 12 at-bats, including a home run, and delivered outstanding defensive plays at first base. The bullpen held firm in Tuesday’s one-run victory, where Gerrit Cole lasted four innings before Jazz Chisholm Jr. hit a go-ahead eighth-inning home run.
The Yankees now travel to Toronto for a weekend series against the defending American League champions. The team’s internal narrative for the series is encapsulated by the phrase “Win Today. Finish,” which was displayed on an eraser board in the clubhouse. Additionally, the organisation is monitoring the recovery of Jasson Dominguez, who participated in right field drills at Class AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and went 3-for-3 with a home run, and Spencer Jones, who hit his first career home run on Tuesday night.
