Ramírez Shines Again as Guardians Top Yankees 5-4 with Three Home Runs

NEW YORK (AP) — José Ramírez continued his impressive form, hitting one of three home runs for the Cleveland Guardians in a close 5-4 victory over the New York Yankees on Wednesday night. This marked Ramírez's second consecutive game with three hits, showcasing his vital role in the team's success.

The Yankees were without star outfielder Aaron Judge for the second straight game due to a bone bruise in his upper right rib, which has been impacting his shoulder. Yankees manager Aaron Boone mentioned that Judge was set to consult a specialist for further evaluation.

Cleveland's Kyle Manzardo contributed with a homer for the second night in a row, along with two doubles, while Rhys Hoskins added a home run and three RBIs to the Guardians' tally. This win improved Cleveland's road record to an impressive 10-1 since May 6, and they have now claimed 15 victories in their last 20 games.

Gavin Williams (9-3) delivered a solid performance on the mound, allowing three runs and striking out six across 5 1/3 innings, marking his fourth consecutive win. The Guardians also secured their first series victory at Yankee Stadium since September 2021. Cade Smith, despite giving up a run in the ninth inning, successfully recorded his league-leading 21st save, extending his streak to 18 consecutive saves.

In addition to the home runs by Chisholm Jr. and José Caballero for the Yankees, Cody Bellinger notably added two sacrifice flies. Gerrit Cole (1-1), the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, struggled, allowing four runs and six hits in 5 1/3 innings, with just two strikeouts, after a strong start to the season post-surgery.

Looking ahead, Guardians shortstop Gabriel Arias, currently on the 60-day injured list due to a strained left hamstring, is set to begin a rehab assignment on Thursday at Triple-A Columbus. The series finale will feature Guardians right-hander Slade Cecconi (3-5, 5.25 ERA) facing off against Yankees lefty Carlos Rodón (1-2, 3.32).