The New York Yankees (53-42) rallied with three late home runs to defeat the Washington Nationals (48-48) 4-2 on Saturday afternoon at Nationals Park, extending their win streak to three games. After managing little offensively through seven innings, New York erased a two-run deficit with a barrage of home runs to secure its second straight comeback victory.
The Nationals jumped in front immediately when James Wood crushed the first pitch of the game for a home run. Curtis Mead added another solo shot later, giving Washington a 2-0 lead. Cam Schlittler recovered nicely from the rocky start, working 6.2 innings while allowing just two runs on four hits. The first-time All-Star battled through four walks, struck out six and repeatedly escaped trouble to keep the Yankees within striking distance.
The bullpen preserved the deficit before the offense finally broke through in the eighth. Ryan McMahon, who entered after replacing Amed Rosario, launched a 416-foot solo homer to put New York on the board. Two batters later, Trent Grisham delivered the biggest swing of the afternoon, crushing a two-run homer to give the Yankees their first lead. Paul Goldschmidt followed with a solo blast to cap three consecutive home runs and provide valuable insurance.
The Yankees again struggled with runners in scoring position, finishing 0-for-8 after going hitless in those situations the previous night. Ben Rice continued his hot stretch by reaching base four times with two hits and two walks, while David Bednar worked around one baserunner in the ninth to earn another save.
The Yankees conclude their three-game series against the Nationals on Sunday, with first pitch scheduled for 1:35 p.m. Right-hander Will Warren (7-4, 4.15 ERA) is expected to start for New York, while Washington has not announced its starting pitcher.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.