Yankees beat Dodgers 7-3 on June 2, 2025, on Lou Gehrig Day. Ryan Yarbrough starred, Ben Rice homered. Yanks avoid sweep in World Series rematch!
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Phew! Just when it looked like the Dodgers might complete a demoralizing sweep in a World Series rematch, our New York Yankees dug deep on a special Lou Gehrig Day, delivering a crucial 7-3 victory in Los Angeles. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement, a much-needed morale booster, and a fitting tribute to the Iron Horse.
Ryan Yarbrough, fresh off receiving his 2024 World Series ring, was nails: 6 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 5 K, 0 BB.
The Bronx Bombers, donning the iconic No. 4 patch to honor the 100th anniversary of the start of Lou Gehrig's legendary streak of 2,130 consecutive games, finally found their groove against their World Series rivals. Lefty Ryan Yarbrough, who fittingly received his 2024 championship ring before this series, was the star on the mound. He delivered six stellar innings, allowing just one run on four hits while striking out five and, impressively, issuing zero walks. The offense backed him up, with Ben Rice launching a key two-run homer and DJ LeMahieu driving in a pair of crucial runs. This 7-3 win felt bigger than just one game; it was about pride and maintaining momentum.
While the on-field action was celebratory, some intriguing roster moves were also afoot. Veteran righty Carlos Carrasco was selected from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on June 1, a move that seemed to preempt a potential DFA on June 3, suggesting the Yankees might have seen an immediate, albeit brief, need for him, perhaps even for an appearance on June 2. Coinciding with this, Yerry De los Santos was optioned back to Triple-A, though he'd be recalled just a couple of days later. Adding to the pitching puzzle, reports surfaced that Luke Weaver was experiencing a left hamstring issue during Monday's game. While not officially on the IL until June 3 (retroactive to June 1), this developing situation and the subsequent strain diagnosis likely played a role in Carrasco's call-up. It's a reminder of how quickly pitching depth can be tested.
Despite dropping the first two games in LA, this vital win ensured the Yankees maintained their perch atop the AL East. It’s a testament to the team's resilience. Losing a series to a team like the Dodgers, especially after last year's Fall Classic, is never easy, but avoiding the sweep and heading home with a win keeps the good vibes flowing and the standings favorable. Now, the focus shifts to managing the pitching staff and carrying this momentum forward.
Monday was a rollercoaster, from the emotional Lou Gehrig Day tribute to the nail-biting win and the underlying roster strategy. With Weaver's injury now a reality, the Yankees' depth will be tested, but their ability to salvage a win against the Dodgers shows they're ready for the fight. Onwards and upwards, let's keep this AL East lead strong!