The New York Yankees wrapped up the regular season with a 6-4 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates, with Alex Verdugo playing a crucial role in the win by hitting a go-ahead, two-run single in the eighth inning. The hit came with the bases loaded and two outs, breaking a 4-4 tie. Verdugo’s timely single drove in Austin Wells and Jasson Domínguez, ultimately securing the win for the Yankees.
Luke Weaver earned the win by pitching a scoreless eighth inning, while Clay Holmes recorded his 30th save of the season by striking out Oneil Cruz. The victory ensured the Yankees finished the season with a 94-68 record, clinching home-field advantage throughout the American League playoffs.
Trent Grisham had a strong performance for the Yankees, hitting a two-run homer and adding an RBI single after being a late addition to the lineup. The Yankees overcame the absence of Aaron Judge, who was scratched shortly before the game due to a rain delay.
Both teams saw their starting pitchers struggle, with Clarke Schmidt allowing four runs in four-plus innings for the Yankees and Bailey Falter surrendering four runs in three innings for the Pirates. Despite the pitching challenges, the Yankees were able to secure the win and end the regular season on a high note.
Off the field, the Yankees saw a slight increase in attendance compared to the previous season, drawing 3,309,838 fans for 79 home games. The team had 17 sellouts, marking their most since 2018 at the current Yankee Stadium.
Looking ahead, the Pirates will open spring training against the Orioles on February 22, while the Yankees will be led by Gerrit Cole in Game 1 of the Division Series on Saturday in the Bronx against either Baltimore or Kansas City.
