Yankees roar back to narrow World Series deficit with Anthony Volpe-led comeback in Game 4
The New York Yankees kept their World Series hopes alive after winning Game 4 on Tuesday. Entering Tuesday night's game, the Yankees trailed 3-0 in the Fall Classic, but thanks to a collective offensive effort, coupled with exceptional pitching from the bullpen, the team staved off elimination.
The game started just like Game 3. Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman struck a two-run home run off starter Luis Gil to put LA 2-0 on top in the first inning.
The Yankees responded with Alex Verdugo's groundout RBI, which drove in Anthony Volpe for their first run in the second inning. However, the highlight of the game came in the third inning when Volpe hit a grand slam off Daniel Hudson to put the Yankees on top, 5-2.
In response, the Dodgers cut the deficit to 5-4, courtesy of Will Smith's solo home run and Freddie Freeman's RBI groundout in the fifth inning.
Yankees catcher Austin Wells extended the Yankees lead to 6-4 after hitting a two-run home run in the sixth inning against Landon Knack. The Yankees piled up more runs in the eighth inning.
Alex Verdugo drove in Anthony Volpe through a groundout, followed by a three-run home run by Gleyber Torres. Captain Aaron Judge then came to the party with his first hit of the night, resulting in an RBI single which drove in Juan Soto as the Yankees' lead swelled to 11-4.
Tim Mayza came in to pitch the ninth inning. He retired the Dodgers trio of Chris Taylor, Kike Hernandez and Will Smith to cap off the innings and give the Yankees an 11-4 win.
With the World Series now at 3-1, the two teams meet again on Wednesday.
Gerrit Cole likely to take the mound for Yankees in Game 5
There were rumors that Gerrit Cole could take the mound for the Yankees in Game 4 on Tuesday. However, Aaron Boone remained steadfast with his pitching plans and went ahead with rookie Luis Gil.
It seems his strategy worked. Despite Gil allowing four runs in four innings pitched, the Yankees came away with the win.
Game 5 is also a must-win contest for the Yankees since the Dodgers still lead the series 3-1. The Yankees will likely see their ace, 2023 AL Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole, dictate action on the mound.