The New York Yankees took care of business in their first game of the 2022 playoffs, defeating the Cleveland Guardians by a final score of 4-1 in game one of the ALDS.  

The MVP of the game is a toss up between one of two players: Anthony Rizzo or Gerritt Cole. Rizzo went one for four with two runs batted in, both RBIs came on a two run homer to extend the Yankee lead to 4-1, and close the door from there. Rizzo also played a very good defensive first base. The other finalist for MVP of Game one has to be Gerritt, Cole who pitched six and one third innings allowing just one solo run, which was a home run in the third inning by Steven Kwan. Cole finished allowing only five baserunners, four hits and one walk while striking out eight to earn the win. 

The Yankees’ bullpen came out strong, retiring eight batters while allowing only two hits, both given up by Jonathan Loáisiga. Wandy Peralta and Clay Holmes also looked very good, each not allowing a single runner to reach base.  

Newcomer Harrison Bader also had a big game by continuing to play a stellar center field and came up clutch with a solo home run to even out the score in the third inning with a quick response to the Guardians’ offense. The Yankees definitely didn’t allow themselves to get punched in the face and take it. They came right out swinging in the bottom of the inning to tie the game, and eventually took and held on to the lead. 

The New York Yankees and Cleveand Guardians will be playing Game two of the ALDS on Friday, October 14th after a rain cancellation. The Yanks will send all star Nestor Cortes Jr. to take the hill in search of a second win.