TAMPA, Fla. — In a thrilling 10-8 victory over the New York Yankees, the Tampa Bay Rays staged a late-game comeback that ended New York’s five-match winning streak. The confrontation took an unexpected turn when Brandon Lowe hit a crucial two-run single in the ninth inning, leveling the scores after Devin Williams, New York’s recently-acquired All-Star closer, struggled on the mound. Williams, who currently holds a 9.00 ERA, has been inconsistent during his tenure with the Yankees, conceding runs in multiple outings and walking seven players in eight innings.
Despite holding an 8-4 lead, Williams couldn’t maintain control, allowing hits that included José Caballero’s single and an RBI double by Chandler Simpson, which marked his first major league hit. Yandy Díaz added to the pressure with a run-scoring infield single, followed by Lowe’s pivotal hit to left field. The Yankees squandered a significant opportunity in the 10th, failing to capitalize on a promising start against Edwin Uceta. Jonathan Aranda then dramatically clinched the win for Tampa Bay with a two-run homer, ending a frustrating four-game losing streak for the Rays.
The Yankees’ offense performed well, managing to go 6 for 15 with runners in scoring positions, with Aaron Judge contributing three hits and RBIs, while Trent Grisham added a solo homer. However, the Yankees faced a setback as designated hitter Ben Rice left the game with a bruised left elbow after being hit by a Manuel Rodríguez slider. X-rays showed no serious injury.
On Tampa Bay’s side, starter Shane Baz was unable to hold off the Yankees, giving up five runs over just over three innings, marking his most challenging outing since mid-2022. Meanwhile, New York’s starting pitcher, Carlos Carrasco, struggled with accuracy, delivering only 35 strikes out of 78 pitches over his four-inning performance.
The game’s first key moment came when Paul Goldschmidt’s well-placed grounder initiated a double play, thanks to a skillful motion by José Caballero. This play helped avoid further damage in what could have been a disastrous inning.
As the rival teams prepare for their next match, Yankees LHP Max Fried will face off against Rays RHP Ryan Pepiot. Both pitchers will be eager to lead their teams in the series finale, after the dramatic comeback that highlighted Tampa Bay’s resilience and determination.