Judge’s Decisive Home Run
Aaron Judge, the Yankees’ “Judge,” delivered another home run today against the Braves, hitting a two-run homer in the bottom of the first inning. This crucial hit, his 28th of the season, solidified his position as MLB’s home run leader and helped the Yankees secure an 8-3 victory, maintaining their lead in the AL East.
Bouncing Back Strong
After going hitless with two strikeouts in four at-bats in the first game of the series, Judge redeemed himself in his first at-bat today. Facing Braves’ starting pitcher Charlie Morton, Judge smashed a 95 mph fastball into the right-field stands on a 1-3 count, giving the Yankees a 2-1 lead that they held onto for the rest of the game.
Judge’s Recent Performance
Judge has hit three home runs in his last five games. Today, he went 1-for-4 with a strikeout and a walk, driving in three runs. Not only does he lead the league in home runs, but he is also the first player this season to reach 70 RBIs, making him a dual leader in these categories.
Ozuna’s Efforts for the Braves
Braves’ Marcell Ozuna homered in the first inning off Yankees’ starter Marcus Stroman, marking his 21st home run of the season. Ozuna is currently second in the National League, trailing Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani by just one homer.
Yankees’ Commanding Lead
By the end of the sixth inning, the Yankees were leading 7-1. Braves’ catcher Travis d’Arnaud hit a two-run homer in the top of the seventh, but Yankees’ pinch-hitter Trent Grisham responded with a solo shot in the bottom of the inning. The Yankees ultimately won by a five-run margin, evening the three-game series at one win each.
AL East Standings Battle
Before today’s game, the Yankees led the Orioles by just half a game in the AL East, facing a tight division race. The Orioles lost 1-5 to the Astros, dropping the first two games of their series. With the Yankees’ win today, snapping a three-game losing streak, their lead over the Orioles has extended to 1.5 games.
Henderson’s Struggles
Orioles’ leadoff hitter Gunnar Henderson struggled today, going 0-for-3 with one walk. His home run tally remains at 24, ranking him second in MLB.
Conclusion
Aaron Judge’s impressive performance continues to drive the Yankees forward, as they maintain their lead in the competitive AL East. With key players like Judge and Ozuna delivering pivotal hits, the race for home run leadership and division titles remains intense. (Lvbet)
