Alex Verdugo leads Yankees comeback with key hit and stellar defense vs. Royals

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Alex Verdugo’s spot in the starting lineup was a topic of debate heading into Saturday’s matchup against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. However, Verdugo has stepped up in a big way as the game heads into the late innings, helping the Yankees take a 6-5 lead.

What happened

Alex Verdugo delivered when it mattered most, leading the Yankees to a 6-5 win over the Royals in Game 1 of the AL Division Series. Chosen to start in left field over rookie Jasson Dominguez, Alex Verdugo immediately showed why Aaron Boone had confidence in him, making key contributions on both sides of the ball.

With the game tied at five in the seventh inning, Verdugo stepped up. Facing Royals closer Michael Lorenzen, he lined a clutch RBI single to left field, scoring Jazz Chisholm Jr. and putting the Yankees ahead for good. His aggressive baserunning allowed him to advance to second on the throw home, keeping the Royals on their heels and energizing the Bronx crowd. After reaching second, Verdugo looked toward the dugout, pumping his fist and yelling, “Let’s ****ing go!” as his teammates roared in support.

Earlier in the game, Alex Verdugo had already proven pivotal on defense. In the fourth inning, with two Royals runners on base, he executed a crucial sliding catch down the left-field line to end the inning and prevent further damage. The play was far from easy—after initially hitting his wrist, the ball bounced off his chest before he managed to grab it with his bare hand.

Verdugo’s final stat line spoke volumes: three at-bats, two hits, one RBI, and two runs scored. Despite entering the game in a 2-for-34 slump, Verdugo showed up in the biggest moments.

Boone’s decision to start Verdugo came despite his recent struggles, and after the game, Boone emphasized his trust in Verdugo’s ability to deliver. “The guy’s a good hitter,” Boone said. “Alex Verdugo gave us exactly what we needed—he was all over the game, both with the bat and in the field.””

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