What happened: Cody Bellinger has surged to the top of the American League RBI leaderboard for outfielders, tallying 41 runs batted in through early June. The Yankees veteran sparked a 6-1 victory over the Red Sox on Sunday with a tiebreaking solo home run in the eighth inning.
Why it matters: With captain Aaron Judge diagnosed with a rib stress fracture, Bellinger has become the focal point of the Bronx Bombers' lineup. His 3.6 WAR currently ranks second in the American League, providing critical stability as New York chases the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East.
By the numbers: Bellinger leads all AL outfielders with 41 RBIs and a 3.6 WAR as of June 8. The Yankees (38-26) currently trail the Rays by 1.5 games in the division standings.
What to watch: The Yankees open a three-game road series against the Cleveland Guardians tonight at Progressive Field.