Carlos Rodón had a memorable performance in Game 1 of the AL Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians. Watching Gerrit Cole’s demeanor on the mound in a previous game helped Rodón stay composed and focused during his crucial start. He delivered an outstanding performance, holding the Guardians to one run on three hits with nine strikeouts.
Rodón’s approach, mixing his wipeout slider with his fastball effectively, led to 25 swing-and-misses, setting a record for a Yankees pitcher in the pitch-tracking era. His calm and dominant presence on the mound impressed Yankees manager Aaron Boone, who praised his command and emotional control throughout the game.
The Yankees bullpen, featuring Clay Holmes, Tim Hill, and Luke Weaver, secured the final nine outs to maintain the lead. Weaver, in particular, showcased his ability by striking out the dangerous Jose Ramirez with runners in scoring position, earning multiple five-out saves in the process.
On the other side, the Guardians’ starter, Alex Cobb, struggled early on and left the game with an injury, forcing their bullpen to step in. The combination of walks and wild pitches by the Guardians pitchers played a significant role in the outcome of the game, with Joey Cantillo’s performance being particularly challenging for the team.
Despite the loss, Guardians manager Stephen Vogt acknowledged the need to improve their pitching control and approach against the disciplined Yankees lineup. The Yankees’ ability to work counts and draw walks proved to be a key factor in their success in Game 1.
Rodón’s transformation from a more energetic start in the previous game to a composed and focused performance in Game 1 highlighted his growth and adaptability under pressure. His ability to stay in control, both physically and emotionally, was a crucial factor in his success on the mound.
Overall, Game 1 of the AL Championship Series showcased the importance of composure, control, and effective pitching in playoff baseball. The Yankees’ victory put them one step closer to a World Series appearance, while the Guardians will look to make adjustments and bounce back in the next game.
