Despite a valiant effort from Shea Langeliers and Lawrence Butler, who hit home runs in the second and fourth innings respectively, the Athletics were unable to overcome the Yankees’ early lead. The A’s went 0-for-3 with runners in scoring position and left six runners on base, contributing to their downfall.
The Yankees’ bullpen proved formidable, with Ron Marinaccio, Caleb Ferguson, Dennis Santana, and Clay Holmes combining for 3 2/3 hitless innings against the Athletics. Holmes secured the save, striking out two batters in the ninth inning.
A’s manager Mark Kotsay expressed concerns over the wide strike zone called by home plate umpire John Tumpane, particularly noting Yankees catcher Austin Wells’ positioning. Despite the challenging conditions, Blackburn had a solid outing, allowing only five hits in six innings and retiring 17 of his last 18 batters.
Athletics’ relievers Scott Alexander, Luis Medina, and Ken Waldichuk had successful bullpen sessions on Tuesday, while infielder J.D. Davis and outfielder Miguel Andujar began running in their respective recoveries. The four-game series between the Athletics and Yankees continues on Wednesday, with Clarke Schmidt taking the mound for New York and Joe Boyle starting for Oakland.
