Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodón expressed strong admiration for rookie shortstop George Lombard Jr.'s defensive prowess, delivering an NSFW reaction to a highlight-reel play during the Yankees' 3-1 win over the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday night at Camden Yards. The play occurred in the bottom of the fourth inning with the game tied.
Christian Encarnacion-Strand hit a sharply grounded ball to Lombard's right at third base. The 21-year-old rookie not only reached the ball but also made a strong, off-balance throw to first base to secure the out. Rodón, making his first start since June 28 after recovering from elbow inflammation, appeared to exclaim on the YES broadcast, "You're a bad motherf–ker, man," directed at Lombard.
Lombard has made a significant defensive impression since his call-up on August 4, which included a double play in his debut. His performance helped Rodón limit the Orioles to one run on four hits over four innings. The veteran pitcher's successful return is particularly important for the Yankees following Max Fried's placement on the injured list on Monday.
Defensively, Lombard has been a solid replacement for Anthony Volpe at shortstop. He has also provided a boost to the Yankees' offense, which has struggled amid the absences of stars Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Giancarlo Stanton. In 41 at-bats, Lombard is hitting .293 with two home runs, three RBIs, and an .833 OPS.
With Lombard now anchoring the shortstop position, Rodón may find increased confidence as the Yankees continue their push for a playoff spot.