On Thursday night, the Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Yankees 5-4 thanks to a home run by Randy Arozarena in the first inning. They defeated the Yankees in two of the three games played, bringing New York’s losing series run to eight games.
The Yankees fell for the 18th time in their last 25 games as Tampa Bay defeated Nestor Cortes (4-8) thanks to an RBI single by Brandon Lowe in the fifth inning.
The Yankees, who have now dropped four straight series, were led home runs by Juan Soto and Austin Wells. The Yankees were 17-3-2 in their first 22 series, so they were off to a good start. However, since mid-June, they have gone 0-7-1.
The Yankees, who are now two games behind the Orioles, will next play a three-game series on Friday night against Baltimore, who is now leading the AL East.
Juan Soto had a solid game, going 2 for 3 with two walks, but a hand ailment that had been bothering him since late June caused difficulty after a swing in the seventh inning. He still intends to participate in Tuesday’s All-Star Game.
Shane Baz made his second start following Tommy John surgery, pitching 4 1/3 innings while giving up three runs and six hits.
Tampa Bay advanced to 46-47 and won its first home series against an AL East team since early September.
Pete Fairbanks ended the game, giving up one run in the ninth inning but recording his 16th save in 18 chances and second of the series. Kevin Kelly (3-1) earned the victory with two key outs.
José Caballero, the second baseman, ran with his back to the plate and made an incredible grab to record the last out. He reached short center field to collect a popup hit by Gleyber Torres. The ball did pop out as he was celebrating, but not before a video review confirmed the out call.
