Gerrit Cole’s birthday start overshadowed by Taillon in Yankees’ loss

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The New York Yankees missed the chance to sweep the Chicago Cubs, falling 2-1 on Sunday at Yankee Stadium. The game was particularly notable as Yankees’ ace Gerrit Cole celebrated his 34th birthday by facing off against his former teammate and close friend, Jameson Taillon. Despite Cole’s strong outing, Taillon outpitched him, leading the Cubs to victory.

Friends turned foes on the mound

Gerrit Cole and Jameson Taillon have a long history together, dating back to their days with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Before the game, Cole spoke about the unique experience of facing his old friend. “It’s the first time we’ve done it, and I think we’re both up for a good competition,” he said. “We’ve been especially close since those first few days.”

Their friendship was evident off the field as well. Prior to the game, Cole and his wife celebrated his birthday with the Taillon family on a boat ride down the Chicago River.

Taillon outduels Gerrit Cole

Jameson Taillon (10-8) delivered a stellar performance against his former team. He allowed just one run over six innings, striking out six and scattering six hits. The Yankees’ only run off Taillon came in the second inning when Anthony Volpe hit a sacrifice fly to drive in Jazz Chisholm Jr., who had doubled earlier.

“Facing Taillon was special,” Gerrit Cole said after the game. “We both wanted to give our teams the best chance to win.”

Gerrit Cole’s strong outing not enough

Gerrit Cole overcame early trouble in the first inning due to a fielding error by Gleyber Torres that loaded the bases. Isaac Paredes took advantage, hitting a soft single to center that brought in two unearned runs. Cole settled down afterward, finishing six innings while allowing just three hits and striking out seven.

“I had a couple opportunities to pick us up and get us out, but I just didn’t make enough good pitches,” Gerrit Cole reflected postgame.

The Yankees’ offense continued to sputter, going 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position and leaving seven men on base. After Volpe’s sacrifice fly in the second inning, the team failed to generate any additional runs.

Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the missed opportunities. “Gerrit pitched well, but unfortunately, the team didn’t correspond offensively,” he said.

Up next

With the loss, the Yankees dropped to 72-69. They return home for a seven-game homestand starting Monday against the Kansas City Royals. Carlos Rodon is set to face Royals right-hander Brady Singer in the opener, with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 p.m. ET at Yankee Stadium.

New York aims to bounce back and reignite their playoff aspirations as the season winds down.

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