Randy Arozarena hit a home run and brought in four runs, while Yandy Díaz started the game with a homer as the Tampa Bay Rays defeated the New York Yankees 7-2 on Saturday.
Arozarena’s three-run homer in the third inning put the Rays ahead 4-2, making a significant contribution. Although he has struggled this season with a batting average of just .154, he has hit four home runs in his last eight games.
“I’m starting to feel a bit better,” Arozarena said, expressing relief after his first multi-hit game since March 30.
Díaz’s homer on Cortes’ first pitch set the tone for the Rays’ strong performance. Both Díaz and Arozarena contributed with RBI doubles in the seventh inning, adding to their team’s lead.
Yandy Díaz, who won last year’s AL batting title, had three hits, improving his average to .250. He has been particularly effective lately, with 13 hits in his last 33 at-bats, boasting a batting average of .394 during this stretch.
Pitcher Zack Littell earned the win, allowing two runs and four hits in 5 2/3 innings, helping the Rays reach a .500 record at 20-20.
Rays closer Pete Fairbanks returned to the mound after missing 19 games due to hand issues. He had a solid outing, striking out one batter in a perfect ninth inning.
The Yankees’ Anthony Volpe provided some offense with a two-run single in the second inning. Despite this, the Yankees suffered their second loss in eight games.
New York’s star player, Juan Soto, had a tough day, failing to reach base for the second consecutive game and only the sixth time this season. Despite hitting a deep fly ball in the seventh inning, it was caught at the wall in center field, preventing the Yankees from taking the lead.
