What a win for the Guardians! James Karinchak’s performance was nothing short of amazing as he danced off the mound and nearly knocked over catcher Mike Zunino in celebration. And who could blame him? Beating the Yankees, even in April, is cause for a big celebration.
Shane Bieber shook off a rough start to pitch seven strong innings and Josh Naylor gave Cleveland the lead with a tiebreaking sacrifice fly. Naylor, who was targeted by New York fans during last year’s playoffs for his “rock the baby” gesture, silenced them with his clutch performance.
The Yankees had a chance to tie it in the eighth, but Karinchak worked out of a harrowing jam and retired Aaron Judge, Anthony Rizzo, and Giancarlo Stanton. The animated Karinchak showed his emotions, pounding his chest and bumping into Zunino so hard that he knocked off the catcher’s mask.
Emmanuel Clase closed out the game with a 1-2-3 ninth inning, securing the Guardians’ fourth one-run win of the season. With their victory, the Guardians showed they are a force to be reckoned with this season.
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