The New York Yankees bullpen was instrumental in salvaging a doubleheader split against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday, with five relievers combining for nine innings of one-run ball to secure a 2-1 victory in the second game. This performance came after a rough outing by other members of the bullpen contributed to a blowout loss in the first game.
In the nightcap, pitchers Ryan Yarbrough, Paul Blackburn, Brent Headrick, Fernando Cruz, and David Bednar limited the Dodgers' potent lineup. Despite allowing a solo home run in the eighth inning, their collective effort was enough to prevent a series sweep. Manager Aaron Boone praised the efficiency of his relievers, noting Yarbrough's nearly three innings of work and Blackburn's crucial seven outs. Headrick, in particular, has been a standout, not allowing a run in 41 of his 49 relief appearances this season.
Boone had made strategic decisions in the first game, including using pitchers Jake Bird and Camilo Doval in a situation where the Yankees trailed 3-1 in the eighth inning. This decision led to the Dodgers extending their lead to 8-1, with Bird being charged with all five runs allowed in that frame. Following the game, Bird was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre due to his 5.93 ERA. Kervin Castro was called up to fill his spot in the bullpen, as the team seeks internal solutions before the trade deadline.
The team's pitching plans for the coming days were also adjusted. A rainout on Saturday allowed for the rotation to be rearranged, with Ryan Weathers, originally scheduled to start Saturday, now slated to pitch Monday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Elmer Rodríguez was called up as the 27th man for Sunday's doubleheader but was not used in the second game. This approach allows the Yankees to manage Rodríguez's remaining minor league options.
Looking ahead, the Yankees' rotation is set to include Weathers, Will Warren, and Gerrit Cole against the Pirates. An upcoming off day on Thursday could allow the team to maintain normal rest for its four starters, potentially facilitating Max Fried's return next week after one more rehab start, provided his recovery continues as planned.
In other injury news, Carlos Rodón, who is dealing with left elbow inflammation, received a second round of shots, including a PRP injection, on Friday. He was able to play catch on flat ground Sunday and is expected to progress to throwing a bullpen session this week.