Aaron Judge Homers as Yankees Inch Closer to World Series Berth
The New York Yankees are closing in on their first World Series appearance in 15 years. And they can thank slugger Aaron Judge, who has finally shaken off the cobwebs…
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 15: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run in the seventh inning against the Cleveland Guardians during Game Two of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium on October 15, 2024 in New York City.
(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)The New York Yankees are closing in on their first World Series appearance in 15 years. And they can thank slugger Aaron Judge, who has finally shaken off the cobwebs of his October swoon, crushing a two-run homer in the Yankees 6-3 win over the Cleveland Guardians at Yankee Stadium.
Through two games of this American League Championship Series, it has been a total mismatch. While the Yankees haven't been clicking on all cylinders, they are doing just enough to beat a Cleveland team that can't get out of its own way.
No better example than in the bottom of the first inning of Game 2 when Cleveland's Bryan Rocchio dropped a pop-up by Judge, allowing Gleyber Torres to score the game's first run.
Finally, in the bottom of the seventh inning, Judge ripped the proverbial roof of the 'House that Jeter Built' when he crushed a two-run bomb to Monument Park in dead center to make it 6-2.
On the hill, Gerrit Cole did just enough to help win the game for the Yanks. As has been the case for much of the season for Cole since coming off the I.L., he struggled with control but was still effective enough. He held the Guardians to a pair of runs on six hits while walking four and striking out four. He lasted only 4.1 innings.
The Yankees bullpen, on the other hand, continues to be very effective. Clay Holmes got the victory as he continues to succeed in his new role. Tim Hill and Tommy Kahnle were excellent in the seventh and eighth innings, and Luke Weaver, despite giving up a run, closed the door on Cleveland.
NEXT:
The Bombers hit the road for Cleveland with Game 3 set for Thursday night. Clarke Schmidt is expected to get the ball for the Yankees, against Matthew Boyd. First pitch is at 5:08.
