McKinney helps Yankees end losing streak with 5-4 win over Royals

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New York Yankees 5, Kansas City Royals 4

NEW YORK — Billy McKinney played a pivotal role in the New York Yankees’ much-needed victory on Friday night, hitting a remarkable three-run homer and delivering two crucial catches in center field. The Yankees managed to secure a 5-4 win against the Kansas City Royals.

Continuing his impressive streak, Franchy Cordero smashed a home run for the second consecutive game, while Gleyber Torres also showcased his power with a homer for the Yankees. This victory not only put an end to their four-game losing streak but also marked only the third triumph in 12 games since July 4. Notably, Torres extended his remarkable hitting streak to 11 games during this impressive performance.

Since Aaron Judge’s unfortunate injury on June 3, resulting from crashing into the wall at Dodger Stadium and tearing a ligament in his right big toe, the Yankees demonstrated their power by hitting three homers for the fourth time. Despite missing their slugger, the team’s resilience shone through as they improved to a 16-22 record without him. Notably, Judge made progress in his recovery, taking batting practice on the field before the team’s triumphant victory.

In 5 2/3 innings of play, Clarke Schmidt, the right-handed pitcher for New York, took on the challenge and was charged with three runs, allowing five hits along the way.

Meanwhile, on the Kansas City side, Michael Massey showcased his batting prowess with a spectacular performance. In the fourth inning, he slammed a remarkable three-run shot, and later in the eighth, he followed it up with a solo shot. This extraordinary display marked his first-ever multihomer game in his promising career.

Prior to his impressive performance against New York, Michael Massey‘s last home run occurred on May 29 while playing at St. Louis.

McKinney anchors the Yankees

In the game, Billy McKinney showcased his power with a well-timed two-out homer in the fourth inning. The ball soared towards the short porch in right field, propelling the Yankees to a 4-3 lead. This remarkable hit marked McKinney’s fifth home run of the season, adding to his impressive record.

Adding to his impressive performance, McKinney demonstrated his defensive prowess with a breathtaking play. During the final out of the third inning, he showcased his exceptional fielding skills by robbing Kyle Isbel of a potential hit. Isbel’s hit was a sinking liner that sliced into the challenging left-center field, but McKinney’s agility and determination came into play as he completed a remarkable sliding catch just in front of the warning track. The play left both fans and teammates in awe of his defensive abilities.

In a critical moment during the fourth inning, Schmidt was on the verge of escaping the situation, needing only one more strike to close it out. However, Michael Massey had other plans and delivered an impressive hit on a 2-2 pitch, sending the ball soaring about halfway up the second deck in right field. This monumental hit granted the Royals a 3-1 lead, leaving the fans on the edge of their seats.

On the other side of the field, in his fourth appearance as a rookie in the major leagues, Alec Marsh of the Kansas City team took the mound. Despite putting up a valiant effort, he allowed three runs and four hits in 5 1/3 innings. Marsh’s performance displayed his potential and determination, despite the outcome not favoring his team on this occasion.

After Clarke Schmidt’s appearance on the mound, Wandy Peralta took over and showcased his pitching prowess, skillfully leaving two runners stranded in the sixth inning. The game’s excitement continued when Billy McKinney stepped up and made a gravity-defying leaping catch to open the seventh, displaying his defensive prowess.

The intensity heightened even further in the late innings as Clay Holmes came in to close the game. With the pressure on, he successfully secured his 12th save of the season. However, the drama didn’t end there. A pivotal moment arose when Drew Waters was called out at third base on a fielder’s choice. The situation went under review, and the crew chief made a crucial decision by overturning the original call, adding another layer of suspense to the game.

UP NEXT

Saturday afternoon’s pitching matchup features two formidable right-handers taking the mound. For New York, Gerrit Cole, with an impressive record of 9-2 and a stellar 2.78 ERA, will lead the charge. On the opposing side, Kansas City’s RHP Brady Singer, with a record of 6-8 and a 5.70 ERA, will be looking to put on a strong performance against the Yankees’ potent lineup. The clash between these two talented pitchers promises an exciting and competitive game on the field.

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