The New York Yankees (55-51) suffered a 5-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays (65-44) in the series opener on Monday night at Yankee Stadium.
New York managed just three hits and struck out 12 times. The Yankees have struck out 30 times over their last two games, their most in a two-game span in franchise history.
Jake Bauers drove in the only run with his ninth home run of the season.
Jhony Brito made a spot start after Domingo Germán was scratched with armpit discomfort and allowed five runs on four home runs. However, Germán entered the game in the fifth and tossed five shutout innings. Manager Aaron Boone told reporters after the game that he was cleared by doctors two hours before the first pitch.
The Yankees will try to bounce back Tuesday and even the series with Carlos Rodón on the mound. The first pitch is set for 7:05 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].