Spencer Jones delivered a go-ahead hit in the 10th inning Friday night, but the Yankees could not hold the lead as Luis Campusano launched a two-run walk-off home run in the bottom half to give the San Diego Padres a 3-2 victory.
The loss dropped New York four games behind Tampa Bay for first place in the American League East and moved the Yankees to 4-10 in extra-inning games this season.
Jones, an Encinitas, California, native, had circled the San Diego series when he first looked at New York’s schedule. He had attended games at the stadium growing up and dreamed of eventually playing in the Major Leagues there. His 10th-inning hit briefly gave him the homecoming moment he envisioned before Campusano’s blast off Paul Blackburn ended the game.
The Yankees received a strong performance from Max Fried, who made his second start since returning from the injured list. Fried worked 5.2 innings, allowing one run on four hits while walking one and striking out four over 72 pitches.
Ben Rice provided New York’s only other run, crushing a 444-foot home run to straightaway center field against Walker Buehler in the third inning. It was Rice’s team-leading 36th home run of the season.
Will Warren followed Fried with an impressive relief appearance, recording seven outs without allowing a hit.
The Yankees did lose Trent Grisham early after he experienced right hamstring discomfort. Grisham was removed one inning after he was unable to reach Xander Bogaerts’ RBI single in the second inning. He previously missed time with a right hamstring strain earlier this season.
George Lombard Jr. also returned Friday after missing four games with soreness in his right knee.
Carlos Rodón is scheduled to start Saturday against Robbie Ray in the middle game of the series, with first pitch set for 7:15 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.