In a thrilling finish at Rogers Centre, the New York Yankees secured a much-needed victory against the Toronto Blue Jays, winning 5-4 on March 20, 2024. Ben Rice delivered a decisive tiebreaking home run in the ninth inning, helping the Yankees end a five-game losing streak against their division rivals.
Rice’s home run, his 15th of the season, came off Blue Jays closer Jeff Hoffman (6-3) on the first pitch he faced. This victory was crucial for the Yankees, who had struggled to find momentum in recent games. Ian Hamilton (2-1) earned the win by recording one out, while Devin Williams secured his 15th save of the season.
The game unfolded with the Yankees taking an early lead thanks to a three-run homer from Jazz Chisholm Jr. in the first inning, marking his 18th home run of the year. Cody Bellinger followed suit with a solo shot in the fifth inning, extending New York’s lead to 4-1. Addison Barger contributed two hits for Toronto, while George Springer reached base four times, but the Blue Jays could not overcome their deficit.
Toronto’s comeback attempt was sparked in the sixth inning after an error by Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe. This error, his 13th of the season, allowed pinch hitter Myles Straw to reach base and eventually score. Davis Schneider doubled, bringing Straw home, and Jonathan Loáisiga allowed Springer to tie the game with a single.
The Yankees’ starting pitcher, Cam Schlittler, made his second career start, allowing two runs and seven hits over five innings while striking out three. In contrast, Blue Jays ace Max Scherzer gave up four runs and five hits in his five innings on the mound.
As the Yankees celebrated their hard-fought win, they ended Toronto’s franchise-record home winning streak at 11 games. The Yankees will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for the final game of the series.
Looking ahead, Yankees’ left-hander Max Fried (11-3, 2.43 ERA) is set to start against Blue Jays right-hander Chris Bassitt (10-4, 3.89) in the series finale, promising another competitive matchup.
The Yankees’ victory not only serves as a boost for their morale but also highlights the importance of timely hitting and solid pitching in high-stakes games. As the season progresses, every win becomes vital in the pursuit of postseason aspirations.
