The New York Yankees (51-26) still have the best record in baseball, but that could change at any moment. The Baltimore Orioles sit just a half-game behind them after winning their three-game series in the Bronx, and Thursday's 17-5 win to cap it off was convincing.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone sounded off on Baltimore's skill after the game, via ESPN.
“They're about as formidable as there is, and the first couple of series, they've had their way with us,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “They've had the upper hand.”
They certainly had their way with New York starting pitcher Luis Gil, who allowed seven runs and eight hits in a career-low 1.1 innings. Gil came into the game with the lowest ERA in the AL and had allowed just seven runs across his previous nine starts.
“They got after him today and didn't miss some heaters in the center of the plate,” Boone said. “That's been uncommon.”
Gil now has a 2.77 ERA after the disastrous outing, bumping him down to seventh in the AL.
Was this a blip on the radar for Gil and the Yankees, or did this epic beatdown point to deeper team issues?
The Yankees will rebound, but they need bullpen help
Although Gil had one of the worst starting pitching performances in the league this season, he should be the least of New York's worries. The rookie phenom has been lights-out this season, and there's no reason to lose faith after one bad day at the office.
Boone said that Gil's subpar outing was a good learning opportunity, via YES Network.
“Obviously he's in the midst of a great year, and this doesn't change that,” Boone assured. “This is one bump in the road, and frankly it's always an opportunity to grow and learn from…That little bit of a reminder sometimes, especially when you're on top of your game, this game will get ya, and it's a humbling game.”
While Gil has the talent to rebound from his bad day, New York's bullpen is having more consistent issues. The relief pitchers collectively allowed 10 runs across 7.2 innings Thursday, one day after coughing up four across six, including closer Clay Holmes' fourth blown save of the year.
The Yankees bullpen struggled against the Boston Red Sox in the preceding series, as well. It allowed five runs in four innings on Sunday in New York's 9-3 loss.
While the Yankees' relievers were the hottest in baseball earlier in the season, that fire has now been put out. New York needs to make a move for another bullpen arm at the deadline, or it could be in trouble against other contending teams later on.
Follow Us
Subscribe