Anaheim, Calif. — Taylor Ward’s clutch two-run double in the eighth inning propelled the Los Angeles Angels to a 4-3 comeback victory over the New York Yankees on Tuesday night, ending their three-game skid.
Ward wasted no time, pouncing on Clay Holmes’ first offering and sending it soaring into the left-center gap, beyond the reach of Yankees’ left fielder Alex Verdugo. The hit brought home Mickey Moniak and Luis Rengifo, igniting cheers from the home crowd.
Manager Ron Washington hailed Ward’s pivotal hit, emphasizing its significance in breaking the Angels’ pattern of trailing after seven innings. “That’s the big hit we’ve been looking for,” Washington remarked. “We’ve been putting ourselves in position, and Taylor came through for us.”
Ward, reflecting on his decisive swing, acknowledged his intent to capitalize on the opportunity. “I took my shot there, came through, and put a good swing on it. Glad it all worked out,” he said.
The victory was particularly sweet for the Angels, who had struggled to secure wins at home, facing a formidable contingent of Yankees fans among the spectators.
Ward’s heroics were made possible by a critical error from Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo, prolonging the inning and setting the stage for the Angels’ comeback.
Pitcher Matt Moore (1-1) earned the win as the Angels’ bullpen delivered a flawless performance, retiring the last 12 Yankees batters. Closer Carlos Estévez shut the door in the ninth, securing his eighth save of the season.
Despite a strong start from Juan Soto, who launched his 15th home run of the season, the Yankees couldn’t muster enough offense to fend off the Angels’ late surge.
“For only three runs, I thought up and down the lineup we had good at bats and were hitting the ball off the barrel all night long. We couldn’t break it open,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said.
Anthony Volpe extended his hitting streak to 20 games, showcasing his consistency at the plate for the Yankees.
Luke Weaver took the loss for the Yankees, while Nestor Cortes turned in a solid performance on the mound, continuing the team’s impressive streak of starting pitchers allowing two runs or fewer in 15 consecutive games, setting a new MLB record.
UP NEXT:
In Wednesday’s middle game of the series, the Yankees will go with RHP Luis Gil (6-1, 2.11 ERA), who is tied for second in the AL in wins. LHP Tyler Anderson (5-4, 2.52 ERA) takes the hill for the Angels.
