Yankees 0-2 Athletics: Judge, Soto struggle as umpiring debacle highlights Bronx Bombers’ shutout

Juan Soto, a New York Yankees player, facing off against the Oakland Athletics on April 22, 2024, at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York, USA.
AP
Amanda Paula
Monday April 22, 2024

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New York Yankees 2-0 Oakland Athletics

In a disappointing showdown at Yankee Stadium, the New York Yankees fell short in a 2-0 loss against the Oakland Athletics. The game, marked by peculiarities from the very beginning, saw the Yankees squandering a stellar performance from pitcher Carlos Rodon.

Boone’s Controversial ejection clouds Yankees’ disheartening loss

Hunter Wendelstedt, the umpire, ejects Aaron Boone, the manager of the New York Yankees, during the first inning of the game against the Oakland Athletics at Yankee Stadium on April 22, 2024. The stadium is located in the Bronx, New York, USA
NY POST

The Yankees’ game started on a sour note and stayed that way. In a bizarre twist, manager Aaron Boone was ejected after just two batters. Home plate umpire Hunter Wendelstedt apparently mistook a fan’s comment for Boone’s dissent, sparking the manager’s protests but ultimately leading to his dismissal. This unexpected ejection overshadowed what would become a disappointing loss for the Yankees.

This unexpected ejection overshadowed what would become a disappointing loss for the Yankees, as the team sputtered and failed to score anything in the crucial ninth inning.

Carlos Rodon shines but don’t avoid another loss

 Carlos Rodon, pitcher for the New York Yankees, winds up to deliver a pitch during the first inning of the game against the Oakland Athletics at Yankee Stadium on April 22, 2024. The stadium is located in the Bronx, New York, USA
USA Sports Today

Despite the managerial hiccup, Carlos Rodon delivered an outstanding performance on the mound for the Yankees. His seven scoreless innings showcased his best outing since joining the team, with Rodon predominantly relying on his fastball to stifle the Athletics’ offense. However, his efforts were in vain as the Yankees’ offense failed to provide any run support.

The game remained deadlocked until the top of the ninth when lefty Victor Gonzalez surrendered an infield single and a two-run homer to Zach Gelof, breaking the scoreless tie and sealing the Athletics’ victory.

Notable performances included Giancarlo Stanton’s impressive exit velocities despite limited hits, Oswaldo Cabrera’s solid defensive plays at third base, and Rodon’s remarkable pitching display.

Despite Rodon’s standout performance, the Yankees struggled offensively throughout the game, managing just three hits overall. Both Aaron Judge and Juan Soto continued their recent slumps, contributing to the team’s offensive woes.

The bullpen battle ensued after the starters’ stellar performances, with Ian Hamilton navigating through a bases-loaded jam in the eighth, only for Gonzalez to falter in the ninth, allowing the crucial two-run homer.

Yankees struggles deepen as Aaron Judge and Gleyber Torres remain mired in slumps

Aaron Judge, in a surprising turn of events, is facing a slow start. Despite being voted team captain, he hasn’t found his usual form. In Monday’s game, Judge finished with a lowly batting average of just .174.

The Yankees’ offensive woes continued as they were shut out for the fourth time this season, falling 2-0 to the Oakland Athletics. The team managed only three hits in front of a disappointed Yankee Stadium crowd.

Even the usually reliable Juan Soto went hitless. However, Judge’s slump is a major concern. He’s just 3-for-28 (.107) with a staggering 16 strikeouts in his last games. This has led to some Yankee fans expressing doubt about his recent performances and even wishing the team had traded him last year. If Gleyber Torres’ struggles continue, the Yankees could be forced to consider exploring trade options in the next window.

Gleyber Torres isn’t faring much better either. After getting hit by a foul ball on Sunday, he’s in a 6-for-43 slump (.140) with 16 strikeouts of his own.

The game’s narrative was overshadowed by the umpiring controversy surrounding Boone’s ejection, highlighting the unpredictable nature of baseball.

The roster

The lineup of the new york yankees

Up next

Looking ahead, the Yankees aim to bounce back in the remainder of the series against the Athletics, with Marcus Stroman set to face Paul Blackburn in the upcoming matchup. As the Bronx hosts the next game, the Yankees seek to rejuvenate their offense and secure a much-needed victory.

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