The New York Yankees faced off against the Philadelphia Phillies in a thrilling game that was broadcast on TV and online via MLB.tv. The game was anticipated to be a showdown between both teams’ aces, Gerrit Cole and Aaron Nola, and it did not disappoint.
King struggles with dropping fastball velocity
Unfortunately for the Yankees, starter Michael King struggled with his fastball velocity, averaging only 93.8 mph during the game, down from 96.4 mph last year before his injury. King allowed two runs in his first appearance of the season and another two in the game against the Phillies. Despite his struggles, manager Aaron Boone believes that King’s issues are due to syncing issues and plans to work with the pitching coach to fix his mechanics and regain his velocity.
Strahm’s impressive pitching earns him at least one more start
Meanwhile, Phillies pitcher Matt Strahm put in an impressive performance that earned him at least one more start in the rotation. Strahm held the Yankees to one hit in four scoreless innings, retiring Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and DJ LeMahieu twice each in the Phillies’ 4-1 win. This was Strahm’s first real start since 2019, and he was capped at 65 pitches but threw 61 effectively. The Phillies plan to push Strahm to 75-80 pitches in his next start.
Both teams shuffle lineups
The Yankees’ lineup had some changes but not significant ones, while some parts of the Phillies’ lineup had been shuffled. However, the Phillies have been struggling due to pitching rather than offensive performance.
Shortstop takes accountability for misplaying grounder
In the fifth inning, shortstop Anthony Volpe misplayed a grounder that contributed to the Yankees’ loss. Volpe took accountability for the error, stating that he should have made the play.
DJ LeMahieu shows signs of improved power
On a positive note for the Yankees, DJ LeMahieu showed signs of improved power after recovering from a toe injury. He had multiple hard-hit balls and looks to be regaining his form.
Aaron Hicks confronted by crowd
Meanwhile, Aaron Hicks got booed by the crowd for his second straight hitless game. However, Boone believes that it did not affect him.
Phillies’ bullpen and offense pick it up
The Phillies’ bullpen also had a great performance, with Bellatti, Alvarado, and Brogdon turning in stellar performances. The Phillies’ offense picked it up as well, scoring four runs to support Strahm’s impressive pitching.
Overall, the game was an exciting display of talent and strategy from both teams. With Nola set to pitch against Cole in the next game, fans can look forward to another thrilling matchup between these two teams.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
