ALCS opener : Yankees win 5-2 over Guardians

The New York Yankees commenced the American League Championship Series (ALCS) with a decisive 5-2 victory over the Cleveland Guardians. The game highlighted the Yankees' offensive prowess, particularly through Juan Soto’s pivotal home run in the third inning, which catalyzed a three-run surge. This performance not only put the Yankees ahead but also signaled Soto's critical role in their postseason ambitions . Additionally, Giancarlo Stanton contributed significantly by adding another home run to bolster the team's score.

Not on anything Cole did to Royals hitters. Not on his approach or his pitch selection or his mechanics. But on Cole's demeanor around the mound. His tranquility as he navigated the only jam he encountered. The lack of screams and fist pumps. So cool, so calm.

"It's just like a robot walking to the dugout," Rodón noted.

Rodón's emotions sabotaged his first start of this postseason, in Game 2 of the ALDS against the Royals. He saw in Cole the model to emulate. On Monday, in the most important start of his professional career, Rodón nailed the imitation, tossing six brilliant innings in the Yankees' 5-2 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Championship Series.

The Yankees are favored in series odds over the Guardians, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.

BetMGM has New York at -200 to advance, while it puts Cleveland at +165.

The Guardians advanced to this round by beating the Detroit Tigers in five games in the ALDS. The Yankees defeated the Kansas City Royals in four games.

To advance to the ALCS against the Yankees, the Guardians beat presumptive American League Cy Young Award Winner, Tarik Skubal, in the fifth and deciding game of the series.

A fifth inning grand slam blast by Guardians center fielder Lane Thomas put the Guardians ahead in the game. They hung on and won, 7-3.

Yankees RHP Gerrit Cole makes his third postseason start on Tuesday after beating Kansas City in the Division Series clincher. He is 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA this postseason. RHP Tanner Bibee starts for the Guardians. He had a 2.08 ERA without a decision in a pair of Division Series starts against Detroit.

On the mound, Carlos Rodón secured his first postseason win, demonstrating resilience and skill throughout the game. The Guardians' pitching staff exhibited notable struggles, evidenced by five wild pitches and nine walks committed during the match. These lapses ultimately undermined their efforts and provided advantageous scoring opportunities for the Yankees . As they aim for their 41st AL pennant, this victory sets a positive tone for New York as they lead the series heading into Game 2.

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Sarah H

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