Yankees Hang On, Sweep First Place Blue Jays

Jun 19, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher David Phelps (41) pitches during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

The Yankees didn’t seem too phased with the first place Toronto Blue Jays coming into town for a three-game series, and they proved why. With another dominating pitching performance, the Yankees were able to hang on and win the game 6-4, completing the sweep of what is considered to be the biggest series win of the season. The team is now just 1.5 games out of first place.

Yankees’ starting pitcher David Phelps had a great outing in his last start against the A’s on Friday, and he answered back with another one tonight. Phelps went a solid seven innings, giving up two runs, on six hits, and walking two, while striking out seven. The only real damage against Phelps was when he served up a two-run homer to Melky Cabrera in the third inning. With the help of some great defense, Phelps was able to keep the Jays off the scoreboard in the next few innings.

Once he left the game, things started to get a little interesting. Relief pitcher Shawn Kelley came in to pitch the 8th inning, where he only lasted 2/3 of the inning. He gave up two runs on one hit, making the Yankees’ lead a close 6-4. Luckily, no other damage was done.

There were many contributors to the offense tonight. Derek Jeter, Jacoby Ellsbury and Mark Teixeira all had two hits each. Brett Gardner continued his hot hitting, as he picked up a hit as well. Carlos Beltran had one of the biggest hits of the game, hitting a double and driving in two runs.

Coming off this huge sweep, the Yankees hope to continue their winning ways, as they begin a three-game series with the Baltimore Orioles. Hiroki Kuroda will take the ball for the Yankees, who will be looking for a longer start since his was cut short due to the odd 38-minute delay in Oakland. Ubaldo Jimenez will start for the Orioles, coming off of a solid outing against the Blue Jays.