Yankees 5-4 Rays: Gil shines in long-awaited form as New York stuns Tampa with fifth-inning rally
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Amanda Cunha - April 21, 2024
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Follow UsNew York Yankees 5-4 Tampa Bay Rays
In a gripping match on Sunday, Luis Gil showcased his prowess on the mound, notching a career-best nine strikeouts over 5 2/3 innings to secure his first major league victory in three years. The New York Yankees capitalized on Adam Civale’s struggles with control in a pivotal fifth inning, scoring four runs to edge past the Tampa Bay Rays 5-4.
Yankees seize momentum with fifth-inning rally
Civale’s command faltered as he issued three consecutive walks with two outs in the fifth, setting the stage for a Yankees rally. Alex Verdugo delivered a crucial two-run single, followed by RBI singles from Jose Trevino and Oswaldo Cabrera, all within a span of just three pitches, propelling New York to a 5-1 lead. Prior to this breakthrough, the Yankees had struggled, going 3 for 17 with runners in scoring position.
Improving their record to 15-7 for the season, the Yankees demonstrated their resilience, securing their sixth series victory out of seven played thus far.
Despite an unearned run stemming from his own throwing error on a pickoff attempt and two balks, Gil exhibited remarkable composure on the mound. The 25-year-old right-hander, making his 11th start in the majors, limited the Rays to two hits and three walks, earning his first win since his debut against Baltimore in August 2021. Gil’s journey to this victory has been marked by adversity, including a torn ulnar collateral ligament that led to Tommy John surgery. However, his return has been impressive, boasting a 2.84 ERA in four starts with the Yankees this season, while consistently clocking an impressive 96.7 mph with his fastball.
Amed Rosario extended his hitting streak to 13 games, contributing a two-run double in the eighth inning, but the Rays fell short despite their efforts. Victor Gonzalez secured the win with his second save of the season, making a remarkable barehand flip to first baseman Anthony Rizzo for the final out.
On the opposing side, Civale endured a tough outing, surrendering a career-high five walks along with five runs and eight hits over 4 2/3 innings. The loss marked another in a series of alternating wins and losses for the Rays over their last ten games.
Looking ahead, the Yankees anticipate the return of third baseman DJ LeMahieu, who could begin a rehab assignment on Tuesday after being sidelined since March due to a right foot injury. Additionally, right-handed pitcher Tommy Kahnle is progressing in his recovery from a shoulder injury and is expected to advance to batting practice after another bullpen session, as indicated by manager Aaron Boone.
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Up next
In the upcoming matchups, the Rays are set to face the Detroit Tigers, with Zack Littell taking the mound against Tarik Skubal, while the Yankees will square off against the Oakland Athletics, with Carlos Rodón starting against former Yankee JP Sears. As the season progresses, both teams strive to maintain their momentum and secure pivotal victories on their quest for success.
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