Royals Knot ALDS at 1-1 with Win Over Yankees in Game 2

In an intense and decisive Game 2 of the American League Division Series (ALDS), the Kansas City Royals managed to secure a victory over the New York Yankees with a score of 4-2 on Monday night. This win at Yankee Stadium ties the series at 1-1, as it moves to Kansas City’s Kauffman Stadium for Games 3 and 4.

Carlos Rodon, making his first playoff start for the Yankees, initially showcased a strong performance by striking out the side in the first inning. However, the veteran left-hander found his fortunes swiftly changing after conceding a leadoff home run in the fourth inning to Salvador Perez, a familiar foe.

Perez’s homer triggered a four-run inning for the Royals, marking the end of Rodon’s stint on the mound. The inning saw contributions from other batters, including Maikel Garcia and Garrett Hampson, leading to a decisive lead the Royals would not relinquish.

The Yankees attempted a late surge with Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s ninth-inning home run against Royals’ closer Lucas Erceg, but the effort fell short as Gleyber Torres grounded out with two runners on base, concluding the game.

The Royals’ manager, Matt Quatraro, had been cautious with his pitching choices, bringing in Angel Zerpa in relief to maintain their lead. Kansas City pitchers managed to keep Yankees’ key hitters like Aaron Judge in check, despite Judge leading with an infield single in the eighth inning.

Key defensive plays, such as Bobby Witt Jr.’s double play off Giancarlo Stanton’s sharp grounder, also helped stymie the Yankees’ offense. Despite a challenging night at the plate for Witt Jr., his defensive efforts were notable.

The Yankees opted for strategic lineup changes in Game 2, starting Jon Berti at first base. Berti, acquired from the Miami Marlins, was making his first start at the position due to Anthony Rizzo’s absence through injury. Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Berti’s potential impact and his adaptability during the series, especially with Berti’s speed as an added strength at the bottom of their lineup.

As the series shifts to Kansas City, the Royals will seek to capitalize on their home turf advantage to avoid a return trip to New York for a potential Game 5.