We’re Not in Houston Anymore - Yankees vs Guardians (Game 1 Recap)
After taking down Kansas City in relatively undramatic fashion, the Yankees now face the Cleveland Guardians in the ALCS. Normally at this time, I’m absolutely terrified that Altuve will rip my heart out and use it as some sort of pitch indicator. Typically rage and hatred are my prevailing moods throughout a championship series and while that’s unfortunately will be absent this time around — I can definitely get used to seeing this slob in the 5-hole instead of Yordan Alvarez.
While the Yanks weren’t afforded their chance at redemption (vs Houston), Carlos Rodon was granted his. After making a total ass of himself in Game 2 of the DS, the prize of our 2023 free agent class finally added a signature start to his Yankee resume — tossing 6 innings of 1 run ball that included 9 punchies. Rodon’s slider yielded lethal results thanks to Cleveland’s lineup being both predominantly lefty…and not very good. It’s no secret — having this sweaty lunatic go deep into games is imperative if we’re going to win this damn thing. Tonight serves as one of this team’s most significant steps in the right direction.
On the flip side, I had to double take when I saw Alex Cobb was starting this game for the Guards. I had no idea this guy was still and the league — but I guess that’s not hard to miss when you throw 16 innings all season. Between the Dodgers deploying Tampa Bay tactics and Cobb being rolled out Game 1 — I guess I really don’t have much to complain about in terms of our starting rotation. This reminds me of the time the Twins trotted out that uber driver in the playoffs. I wonder whatever happened to that guy…
Anyways, the Yanks were able to jump on Cobb immediately. Knowing pitch count wasn’t going to be a factor, it was apparent that the approach was to swing early in the count and drive the ball up the middle. While this didn’t yield any runs in the first 2 innings, Soto got the scoring started with a solo shot to lead off the 3rd. Cobb then proceeded to walk the bases loaded before passing the baton to this incredible bullpen I’ve been hearing so much about.
I know this guy isn’t necessarily one of their “high leverage” arms, but this was one of the more hysterical bed wettings I’ve seen all postseason. Cantillo’s 4 consecutive wild pitches gave the Yanks a 3–0 lead in an inning where they mustered up one hit (a solo HR). Shout out to Naylor’s brother with the Gary Sanchez defense behind the dish as well. I hope to see plenty more of this duo as the series progresses.
A Judge sac fly and the daily “Playoff Stanton” homer gave the Yanks a 5–1 lead heading into the 8th. Some will say Boone got a little cheeky trying to sneak out the victory with Tim Hill, but I personally don’t hate trying to give the guys who carried you through the DS a little rest. But alas — a ground ball snuck under Rizzo’s glove and an odd interference play set the table for a cute little Guardians rally.
Jose Ramirez stepping in as the game tying run admittedly produced the night’s sole droplet of sweat. But then Dream Weaver turned out the lights once again with yet another 5-out save. While I don’t fully understand what he was going for with the Target bags, my sweet Luke can do no wrong as he continues to deliver night after night. I love him so fucking much.
I’m not quite arrogant enough to declare this series over just yet. However, I can’t say I was overly impressed with our top seeded counterparts. I know I sound like a broken record, but we haven’t even got big hits in these games and are still winning somewhat comfortably behind our pitching. I’m sure we can expect more out of Ramirez and the Cleveland pen but as it stands right now, I don’t see it being enough. We still have a week of games to go, but after last night’s performance I’m feeling more confident than ever that the Yanks will be playing in their first Fall Classic since 2009.
