The New York Yankees took Game 1 of their ALDS series against the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night with a 6-5 win that was highlighted by a controversial call in the bottom of the seventh inning.
Here are four takeaways from the Yankees win.
1. Yankees get big break that swung the game
The big turning point in Game 1 came in the bottom of the seventh inning when the score was still tied, 5-5.
Yankees first baseman Oswaldo Cabrera struck out on a 3-2 pitch with third baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. on the move attempting to steal second. Royals catcher Salvador Perez attempted to throw out Chisholm, but he was ruled safe on an incredibly close play at second base.
The Royals challenged, hoping the call would be overturned to end the inning.
It was not overturned, though. As you can see on the replay below, it was the type of call that could have very easily gone either way. It was also one of those replays that was going to stay with the call on the field.
Judge for yourself.
Yankees left fielder Alex Verdugo followed that review with an RBI single to give the Yankees the lead and what would go on to be the game-winning run.
2. The Royals pulled Michael Wacha too soon
The Royals paid Wacha a lot of money this offseason to help solidify their starting rotation and give them a chance to compete. He did exactly that all summer and helped them reach the playoffs. And then they pulled him in the fifth inning, with the Royals leading 3-2 — and after only 70 pitches just because he walked the leadoff batter of the frame.
It proved to be a disastrous decision as Angel Zerpa came in and proceeded to give up a hit while walking two batters, including one with the bases loaded to tie the game.
The Royals bullpen ended up walking five batters in five innings, allowing four runs in the process.
Maybe Kansas City still loses if it lets Wacha pitch longer. But it was a quick hook for a pitcher who they brought in exactly for these moments.
3. Gerrit Cole did not have it, but he was good enough
Cole ended up going five innings and allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits, but never really seemed to be at his best. Even the outs he recorded were of the “loud” variety. The Royals hit several balls incredibly hard, only to have them turn into outs because they were hit right at somebody or because a great play was made in the field.
Juan Soto made a stellar throw to cut down Salvador Perez at home on one play, while Aaron Judge made a spectacular running catch into the gap in left-center field in the first inning.
The good news for the Yankees was that they got a so-so Cole start and were still able to get the win.
4. Aaron Judge still waiting for his big playoff moment
Along with a so-so Cole start, the Yankees also got through a really tough game from Judge at the plate.
While he made a great defensive play in the first inning, he had an incredibly difficult night at the play by going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts. He did draw a walk and score a run, but the Yankees will still need more from him if they are going to make a serious run at the World Series.
Judge has hit his share of postseason home runs in his career, but he his overall batting numbers have taken a big hit in the past when playoffs start. As great as Judge is, Yankees are measured by playoff success and World Series championships. Judge is still missing those elements from his otherwise spectacular career.
