The New York Yankees (17-16) rallied back from a four-run deficit, but the Tampa Bay Rays (27-6) took advantage of brutal defensive play by Jake Bauers and picked up a 5-4 series-opening victory on Friday night at Tropicana Field.
New York fell behind 4-0 in the first three innings but battled back and put up a four spot in the sixth, thanks to a Gleyber Torres RBI double and a Harrison Bader three-run shot. However, the Yankees’ offense went silent after that, and the Rays took advantage of a misplay by Bauers in left field, which led to the game-winning run.
Jhony Brito surrendered four runs on six hits over four innings while walking one and striking out two. The bullpen did a great job of keeping New York in the game. Albert Abreu, Ian Hamilton, and Michael King had scoreless outings.
Anthony Volpe and DJ LeMahieu each had two-hit games, while Anthony Rizzo and Kyle Higashioka each had a hit.
The Yankees will try to even the series on Saturday with Domingo Germán on the mound. The first pitch is set for 4:10 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].