The New York Yankees narrowly missed a comeback victory against the Baltimore Orioles, losing in extra innings after Ben Rice hit a game-tying three-run homer. They aim to split the doubleheader in the second game, featuring Max Fried’s return from injury. Fried, who last pitched on May 13, was sidelined due to a bone bruise in his left elbow. After a month of recovery, he made a single rehab start, allowing two runs in three innings, and will pitch with a limit of around 60 pitches. Fried’s performance prior to his injury included a 4-3 record, 3.21 ERA, and 50 strikeouts in 61.2 innings. He faces Pirates rookie Bubba Chandler, who has struggled with a high walk rate and a 4.77 ERA over 18 starts this season. Both teams made lineup changes ahead of the game, with the Yankees bringing in Anthony Volpe and Paul Goldschmidt.
Why It Matters
Max Fried’s return is significant for the Yankees as they seek to enhance their pitching depth and improve their playoff prospects. Before his injury, Fried was one of the team’s most effective starters, contributing to a solid ERA and strikeout rate. The Yankees currently sit in a competitive AL East, and Fried’s performance could impact their standing as they approach the season’s final stretch. The matchup against Chandler is also crucial, as the Yankees aim to exploit his high walk rate and capitalize on his inexperience to secure a win in the series.
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