In the absence of Aaron Judge, who was sidelined due to an injury, it was imperative for someone to step up and fill the void for the Yankees. That responsibility fell on starting pitcher Domingo German, who delivered an impressive performance by limiting the formidable Dodgers lineup to just one run over 6 2/3 innings.
The series was tied at 1-1 and Game 3 was all-important for both teams. Without Aaron Judge, who was consistently carrying them to series wins in the last one month, the Yankees lineup looked feeble. But Domingo German stepped up admirably, providing the Yankees with the exact performance they required. The right-handed pitcher delivered what could be considered his finest start of the season, playing a pivotal role in the Yankees’ 4-1 victory over the Dodgers.
In a thrilling finale that could easily fit a Hollywood narrative, Sunday’s decisive game kept fans on the edge of their seats. Domingo German displayed a dominant presence right from the start, mirroring the performance of Dodgers’ rookie Bobby Miller by keeping the scoreboard free of runs. In the initial four innings, the only blemish on Domingo German’s record was a double by David Peralta with two outs in the second inning, but he promptly extinguished any potential danger. Notably, Domingo German impressively threw strikes with his first 11 pitches on Sunday, showcasing his impeccable command.
The cruise control mode
Taking the mound for his 12th start of the season, Domingo German showcased his brilliance on the field. The talented right-hander commenced the game with a strong showing, effortlessly navigating through the Dodgers lineup during their initial at-bats.
Domingo German demonstrated his prowess on the mound by flawlessly completing the first and third innings, not allowing any baserunners. In the second inning, despite conceding a double with two outs, he skillfully evaded any further damage. Carrying his momentum into the fourth, Domingo German efficiently retired the top of the opposing team’s lineup without much trouble.
In the bottom of the fifth inning, Domingo German encountered a minor moment of concern when he appeared to roll his ankle during a pitch. He showed some discomfort, prompting Aaron Boone and the trainers to come out and assess the situation. However, the resilient right-hander chose to stay in the game and continue pitching.
After the game, Boone provided an update on Domingo German’s condition, reassuring everyone that the pitcher was in good health. Boone explained that the Yankees starter experienced a minor incident when his spike caught in a hole, causing his ankle to roll slightly. However, the pitcher had his ankle taped, which provided stability and ensured that he was fine. The manager further mentioned that he wanted to confirm Domingo German’s condition because he observed a peculiar reaction from him.
Domingo German didn’t let the minor setback bother him as he continued to pitch smoothly and effortlessly.
In the sixth inning, the Dodgers managed to put a runner in scoring position after James Outman drew a walk and stole a base. However, Domingo German displayed his prowess by striking out Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman with well-executed curveballs, effectively escaping the situation.
In the seventh inning, with the Yankees taking the lead for the first time, Domingo German returned to the mound and delivered a strikeout to Max Muncy. He followed it up by quickly getting ahead of J.D. Martinez with an 0-2 count. However, Domingo German made a rare mistake by leaving a curveball hanging, and Martinez took full advantage of the opportunity. Martinez launched his 14th home run of the season into the left-field seats, tying the game at one run apiece.
After the game, Domingo German revealed that his strategy from the beginning was to heavily rely on his off-speed pitches.
He emphasized that utilizing his off-speed pitches, particularly the curveball, and changeup, was a key component of his approach. Domingo German acknowledged the importance of throwing strikes early in the count and effectively expanding the strike zone when needed. The strategy paid off as he executed the game plan effectively throughout the game.
Following the Yankees taking the lead, Domingo German swiftly retired the initial two batters in the seventh inning. He proceeded to work an 0-2 count against J.D. Martinez, but unfortunately, his first breaking ball of the game did not hit its mark, allowing Martinez to launch it into the stands and level the score.
After Domingo German surrendered an infield single to David Peralta, he was replaced on the mound. Clay Holmes entered the game as the reliever and promptly induced a groundout from Vargas, effectively concluding the inning.
Domingo German concluded his most impressive outing of the season, tallying a final stat line of 6.2 innings pitched, allowing only 1 earned run on 4 hits and 1 walk while striking out 6 batters. With this performance, his season ERA stands at 3.69 and his WHIP is at a stellar 0.92.
Over his last six starts, Domingo German has accumulated a remarkable 2.31 ERA and has struck out 26 batters. He told that the team’s strategy was proactive and precise, aiming to effectively control all their pitches against the formidable lineup they faced. He felt that they were able to execute this plan during the game and maintain a strong focus on the task at hand.
“We wanted to be aggressive and execute and command all the pitches against this lineup. I felt like during the game we were able to do that and stay locked in to the game,” he said.
The entire team pitched in for the win
In the absence of Aaron Judge, the Yankees managed to generate sufficient offense to support Domingo German’s outstanding performance on the mound. They also added some additional power in the ninth inning to secure a comfortable lead, ultimately securing a 4-1 victory over the Dodgers and clinching the series at Dodger Stadium.
In the eighth and ninth innings, the Yankees scored, with Anthony Volpe‘s two-run homer being the highlight. Volpe, who went 2-for-4, has hit nine home runs so far this season.
Boone expressed his satisfaction in witnessing various players stepping up in the absence of Judge, contributing to the team’s series victory away from home. The skipper praised the team for the widespread contributions and the positive outcomes they have been achieving. He credited their dedication, preparation, and competitive spirit as key factors in their success, emphasizing the high level at which they have been performing.
Anthony Volpe expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance against a formidable opponent. He acknowledged the quality of the opposing team and emphasized the significance of winning the series in the manner they did. Volpe, who had his first multi-hit game since May 14, highlighted his contribution with a crucial two-run home run in the ninth inning.
Aaron Boone commended the team for their exceptional performance, acknowledging the numerous positive aspects displayed during the game. He expressed satisfaction with the team’s collective effort and emphasized the presence of winning elements throughout the game.
Boone praised Domingo German’s exceptional performance on the mound, noting his remarkable command throughout the game. According to Boone, Domingo German effectively mixed his pitches, utilizing an outstanding curveball and changeup while maintaining unpredictability. The manager emphasized Domingo German’s ability to work the top of the strike zone with his four-seam fastball and effectively utilize his sinker. Boone emphasized that such command is crucial when facing a formidable lineup like the Dodgers.
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