The New York Yankees secured a 6-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Championship Series, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the series. The game was highlighted by Aaron Judge's first home run of the postseason, a crucial two-run shot in the seventh inning that broke the deadlock and energized the Yankees bench.
Judge, who led the majors with 58 home runs during the regular season, also contributed with a sacrifice fly earlier in the game to help propel the Yankees to an early lead. His offensive performance was complemented by strong pitching from Clay Holmes, Tim Hill, and Tommy Kahnle, who combined for 3 2/3 scoreless innings to shut down the Guardians' lineup.
The Guardians struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, going 0 for 7 with runners in scoring position and leaving 11 runners stranded on base. Errors by rookie shortstop Brayan Rocchio and right fielder Will Brennan proved costly for Cleveland, allowing the Yankees to extend their lead.
Despite a shaky start from ace Gerrit Cole, who was pulled after 4 1/3 innings due to control issues, the Yankees bullpen held firm, with only the second earned run allowed in over 23 1/3 postseason innings.
With the series now shifting to Cleveland for Game 3, the Yankees will look to build on their momentum and close out the ALCS. Rookie right-hander Clarke Schmidt is set to start for New York, aiming to replicate his solid performance in the Division Series and secure another crucial win for the Yankees.
The Yankees last held a 2-0 lead in the ALCS in 2009, and they will be eager to maintain their advantage and punch their ticket to the World Series. Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday in Cleveland, where the Guardians will look to rally and turn the series in their favor.
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