The Yankees' recent hot streak continued on Tuesday night as they defeated the Rangers 7-4, thanks in large part to the stellar performances of Ryan McMahon and Jazz Chisholm Jr. These two players, who have been struggling early in the season, have now become key contributors to the team's success.
McMahon, who went 2-for-4, tied the game in the second inning with a two-run home run off the legendary Jacob deGrom. This was his third home run of the season, and it came after a slow start where he was batting just .119 with a .379 OPS in his first 17 games. His recent hot streak has seen him bat .304 with an .877 OPS over his last 17 games, providing crucial production at the bottom of the lineup.
Chisholm, on the other hand, has been on fire since April 22. He started the season without a home run in his first 23 games, batting a mere .173 with a .498 OPS. However, in the past 12 games, he has hit 13-for-45 with a .908 OPS and four home runs, including a 413-foot shot in the sixth inning that put the Yankees ahead for good. His bat flip after the home run was a highlight, showcasing his newfound confidence and power.
The Yankees' bullpen also played a crucial role in the win, with Brent Headrick, Fernando Cruz, and David Bednar combining to strand all eight runners they inherited. The offense, led by Bellinger and Goldschmidt, delivered when it mattered most, with Bellinger hitting a two-run double in the seventh and Goldschmidt adding a solo shot.
The Rangers, meanwhile, struggled with their starting pitcher, Elmer Rodríguez, who gave up three runs in 4 2/3 innings. He walked four batters in his second start, including the first two he faced, which led to an early deficit. The Yankees' offense, led by Judge and Bellinger, cut the deficit to 3-1 in the first inning, and they never looked back.
This win marks the Yankees' fifth straight, and they are now 25-11, with a 15-win streak in their last 17 games. It's a testament to the team's depth and resilience, and the contributions of players like McMahon and Chisholm, who have turned their seasons around, are a significant part of this success.