Yankees Blank Rays 2-0 Behind Schmidt’s Gem, Rizzo’s Homer
Clarke Schmidt’s stellar outing and Anthony Rizzo’s timely hitting propelled the New York Yankees to a 2-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday night. Schmidt, making his eighth start of the season, continued his impressive run of limiting opponents to three or fewer runs, allowing just five hits over 6 2/3 innings. He struck out six and walked two, extending his streak of quality starts to eight.
Rizzo, the Yankees’ first baseman, provided the offensive spark with an RBI single in the fourth inning and a solo home run off Shawn Armstrong in the ninth. His homer proved to be the game-winning hit, giving the Yankees their sixth win in seven games.
Rays starter Taj Bradley, making his season debut after recovering from a pectoral strain, pitched six solid innings, allowing one run on four hits while striking out seven. However, the Yankees’ offense managed to scratch across a run in the fourth inning when Giancarlo Stanton singled and Rizzo drove him in.
The Rays threatened in the ninth inning, loading the bases with two walks and a single. However, Yankees closer Clay Holmes struck out two batters and induced a groundout to secure his 12th save in 13 chances.
The Yankees’ victory was marred by injuries to ace Gerrit Cole and infielder DJ LeMahieu, who will remain at the team’s Tampa complex for further evaluation. Meanwhile, the Rays are hopeful that closer Pete Fairbanks will return this weekend, while Ryan Pepiot is expected to attempt a mound session soon after being hit by a line drive last Sunday.
