The New York Yankees dropped their third consecutive game Monday night, falling 5-3 to the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Gerrit Cole was tagged for five runs in 4.1 innings as the Yankees slipped to 46-31, while Detroit improved to 34-44 with its fourth straight victory.
The Yankees had opportunities early but could not capitalize against Tigers left-hander Framber Valdez. New York managed just one run through the first six innings despite putting runners aboard in each of the first three frames.
Cole never found a consistent rhythm. After striking out five through four innings, the veteran right-hander was hurt by a three-run third inning highlighted by RBI hits from Spencer Torkelson and Colt Keith. Detroit added another run in the fourth before Riley Greene opened the fifth with a solo homer, ending Cole’s night. He allowed nine hits and five runs while striking out five over 89 pitches.
Ali Sánchez accounted for New York’s first run with an RBI double in the second after Jose Caballero walked and stole second base. The Yankees didn’t generate much else until the seventh, when Amed Rosario launched a two-run homer to right field to cut the deficit to 5-3.
Anthony Volpe continued his strong play with a 2-for-4 night, while Paul Goldschmidt collected two hits. However, the Yankees finished just 1-for-5 with runners in scoring position and stranded seven runners.
The bullpen kept New York within striking distance. Paul Blackburn, Ryan Yarbrough, and the relief corps combined for 3.2 scoreless innings without allowing a hit, but the offense could not complete the comeback.
The three-game series continues Tuesday in Detroit with first pitch scheduled for 6:40 p.m. Carlos Rodón will start for the Yankees against Tigers right-hander Casey Mize.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
