The Yankees ended a four-game losing streak, thanks mostly to the pitching of Masahiro Tanaka. The Athletics came in on a streak of their own, winning their last five games.
The Athletics were the highest scoring team in the majors entering Thursday’s contest. It looked like the high scoring would continue after John Jaso launched a solo shot in the top of the first inning.
Tanaka (9-1) went six strongs innings, giving up one run. He earned the win despite minimal run support.
The rookie has been phenomenal all season long. He currently leads the American League with a 2.02 ERA.
A home run by Brett Gardner and a double by Alfonso Soriano gave the Yankees a 2-1 lead after six innings. That was all the runs they would need.
David Robertson finished off the ninth inning, giving him his 13th save in 15 opportunities. The inning, however, was a rough one for Robertson.
After giving up a one-out single to Vogt, pinch-runner Craig Gentry stole second. Alberto Callaspo came to the plate and put a hard grounder right back up the middle. The grounder hit Robertson in the leg and deflected to first baseman Mark Teixeira – who flipped the ball back to Robertson covering the bag.
Now, the Yankees are only one game over .500. It has been a rough season for the Yankees. One thing is for certain, however: Masahiro Tanaka has been worth the money.