“The biggest issue is that Rasmussen shut us down…”
Yankees manager Aaron Boone reacts to the Game 1 loss, Austin Wells Via @MLBNetwork on X
What happened: New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone pointed to opposing pitching and a costly baserunning mistake following a 1-0 shutout loss in the ALDS opener. Boone highlighted Drew Rasmussen's performance on the mound and Austin Wells being thrown out at third base while attempting to stretch a double as the defining factors in the defeat.
Why it matters: The result puts New York in an immediate deficit in the short series, amplifying the pressure on a lineup playing without Aaron Judge. Generating momentum was already difficult against a starter who carried a no-hitter into the eighth inning, making the lost scoring opportunity with Wells especially damaging.
By the numbers: New York entered the postseason having won three straight head-to-head matchups in late September, but the offense stalled in the playoff opener.
What to watch: The Yankees must secure a victory in Game 2 to avoid facing elimination on the road.