The New York Yankees missed another opportunity to win a series Sunday afternoon, falling 4-1 to the Cincinnati Reds at Yankee Stadium. Cincinnati improved to 37-39, while New York dropped to 46-30 after another frustrating day at the plate with runners in scoring position.
Ben Rice provided an early spark in the third inning, crushing a solo home run to right field off Chase Burns for his 22nd homer of the season and a 1-0 Yankees lead. However, that proved to be New York’s only run as Burns limited the damage over five innings, allowing one run while striking out seven.
The turning point came in the fourth. After Elmer Rodriguez worked through traffic in the opening innings of his major league start, Tyler Stephenson connected on a two-out, three-run homer to center field to put Cincinnati in front for good. Rodriguez battled through four innings, allowing three runs on four hits while striking out four.
The Yankees had chances to respond but could not deliver key hits. New York finished 0-for-9 with runners in scoring position and stranded eight baserunners, continuing an offensive trend that surfaced during Saturday’s loss.
Austin Wells returned from the injured list and went 0-for-2 before being lifted for a pinch hitter. Defensively, the Yankees’ troubles resurfaced in the ninth as a pair of misplays helped Cincinnati add an insurance run and extend its lead.
The Yankees begin a seven-game road trip Monday with a matchup against Detroit. First pitch is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. Gerrit Cole is expected to start for New York against left-hander Framber Valdez.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.