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Roy’s Overtime Heroics Push Avalanche To Commanding Series Lead

DENVER — Hockey can look like a masterpiece one minute and a full-on street fight the next—and Game 2 between the Colorado Avalanche and Los Angeles Kings lived in both extremes all night long.

In the end, Colorado found a way through the chaos. Nic Roy buried the overtime winner 7:44 into the extra frame, lifting the Avalanche to a 2–1 win and a firm 2–0 grip on the series.

But the path there was anything but clean.

A Whistle-Filled, Bone-Rattling Start

The game opened with tension already simmering. At 2:55 of the first period, Adrian Kempe knocked over Nathan MacKinnon at center ice, handing Colorado its first power play after interference was called. The Avalanche generated a few solid looks but couldn’t break through.

Los Angeles made it clear early they planned to raise the physical stakes—but Colorado didn’t just absorb it, they answered. MacKinnon returned the favor with a heavy hit on Trevor Moore in the defensive zone, igniting an edge that never really went away.

That edge boiled over minutes later.

After Cale Makar was sent off for tripping, a center-ice collision involving Mikey Anderson left Martin Necas shaken and eventually heading down the tunnel. The response was immediate. Brett Kulak wrestled Anderson to the ice, while Artturi Lehkonen and Mathieu Joseph exchanged blows in a chaotic scrum.

When officials sorted it out, Colorado came out shorthanded again—Kulak assessed four minutes, Anderson just a minor. It was a theme that would define the first half of the game: plenty of contact, plenty of emotion, and plenty of penalties—many of them questionable.

The whistles kept coming. Joel Armia went off for holding, giving Colorado another power play that was quickly erased when Gabriel Landeskog was called for hooking. Another missed call—this time an elbow from Jeff Malott on Makar—sparked yet another post-whistle scrum.

Colorado closed the period with a clear message, taking runs at Anderson whenever the opportunity presented itself. The only real sigh of relief came when Necas returned to the bench late in the period.

Chaos Peaks with a Save—and Shattered Glass

If the first period was messy, the second somehow got stranger.

Early on, Malott was penalized for boarding Lehkonen. Moments later, Quinton Byfield broke free on a partial breakaway. As Makar chased him down and lifted his stick, officials awarded a penalty shot—a decision that left plenty of confusion in its wake.

It didn’t matter. Scott Wedgewood stole the moment anyway, diving left to deny Byfield and keep the game scoreless.

The crowd erupted—and then things literally broke.

Fans behind Kings head coach D.J. Smith surged forward, shattering the glass behind the bench. Play came to a dead stop for 19 minutes while crews cleared debris and installed a replacement, turning an already bizarre night into something downright surreal.

When play resumed, the whistles returned almost immediately. MacKinnon was sent off for interference after colliding with Alex Laferriere, a sequence that only added to the growing frustration on the Colorado side.

Through two periods, it barely resembled a hockey game. It was choppy, disjointed, and tense—more survival than rhythm.

Finally, Hockey Breaks Out

The third period finally brought something closer to real flow—and, eventually, goals.

A late penalty to Parker Kelly for high-sticking proved costly. On the ensuing power play, Artemi Panarin wired a shot past Wedgewood at 13:04 to give Los Angeles a 1–0 lead.

Even that came with controversy. Colorado argued the sequence should have been reset to neutral ice after Josh Manson’s clearing attempt deflected out of play off a linesman. Instead, the faceoff stayed in the Avalanche zone—and the Kings capitalized.

It felt like the moment that might swing the series.

Instead, Colorado’s leaders answered.

With 3:35 remaining, Devon Toews held the line and funneled the puck down low to Necas. In one fluid, almost improbable motion, Necas slipped a pass through the legs of Anton Forsberg and onto the tape of Landeskog, who was all alone in the slot. The captain tapped it into an open net, tying the game and detonating the building.

Landeskog nearly ended it in regulation minutes later, but Forsberg stood tall, forcing overtime.

Roy Finishes It

The extra period finally delivered the kind of back-and-forth the game had been missing all night. Chances came at both ends, the tension building with every rush.

Then came the finish.

Roy, who was acquired at the deadline, planted himself at the top of the crease, fought through traffic, and buried a rebound past Forsberg to end it—equal parts grit and timing, a fitting conclusion to a game that never really settled down.

Game 3 shifts to Los Angeles on Thursday night. The Avalanche head west in control of the series—but if Game 2 proved anything, it’s that control in this matchup is always one hit, one whistle, or one bounce away from disappearing.

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Elly and the Reds blast past Rays in 12-6 drubbing

ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - APRIL 20: Elly de la Cruz #44 of the Cincinnati Reds hits an RBI single in the third inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on April 20, 2026 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Cincinnati Reds mashed their way past the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday night at the Trop, hitting five home runs along the way. At one point, they held a 12-2 lead – that came as they entered the Bottom of the 9th inning – before things went a little sideways for reliever Kyle Nicolas as he tried to finish off the win (1.0 IP, H, 4 ER, 5 BB, 2 K on 42 pitches).

Let’s focus on the positives here, though, as there were many.

For one, we watched as Elly De La Cruz destroyed a pair of homers as part of a larger 3 for 6, 3 R, 5 RBI game that featured a pair of homers – both from the right side of the plate. His second homer of the night did come against Rays position player Ben Williamson pitching in a mop-up role, but Elly opted to hit righty off the righty Williamson and still managed to sock a homer.

That’s good enough stuff to take home tonight’s Joe Nuxhall Memorial Honorary Star of the Game.

Homers also came off the bats of Ke’Bryan Hayes and Dane Myers, theirs coming back to back off Rays starter Steven Matz in the Top of the 2nd. Hayes finished with a 1 for 3 night that included a pair of walks and a pair of runs scored in easily his best offensive outing of the season. Spencer Steer also homered (and walked twice), while Sal Stewart merely chipped in with a 2 for 4 night that included a trio of ribbies and another stolen base.

Despite the struggles from Nicolas late, Chase Burns (5.2 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 8 K on 97 pitches) was dominant for most all of his outing to lead the pitching line. He entered the Bottom of the 6th having allowed nary a run before a 2-run blast in an already-decided game ended up sending him to the showers. He pummeled the zone throughout the early goings of this one and once again looked every bit the part of a legitimate ace in the making.

The win clinches the series win for the Reds and marks their 5th straight win on this road trip. They also now sit 16-8 on the season and have opened up a 2-game lead on the rest of the National League Central Division.

Go Reds!

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Mets' losing streak hits 12 as they blow three-run lead, Devin Williams turns in non-competitive outing

The Mets returned home to a frigid Citi Field on Tuesday night and fell to the Twins, 5-3, extending their losing streak to 12 games.

Here are the takeaways...

- Devin Williams entered a 3-3 game in the ninth inning and couldn't find the plate, issuing back-to-back walks before Mark Vientos made a questionable decision to try to nab the lead runner at third on a sacrifice attempt, leading to a bases loaded, none out jam. Williams then allowed a base hit through the drawn in infield as the Twins took a 4-3 lead. He followed by issuing a bases loaded walk to make it 5-3, Twins. As boos rained down, Carlos Mendoza came out to get him.  

Austin Warren replaced Williams and struck out all three batters he faced, leading the agitated, freezing fans to shout mock "MVP" chants at him. 

-The final 14 Mets to come to the plate were retired in order. 

-Throwing a fastball that was up to 98 mph, his dastardly two-seamer, and a host of his filthy secondary offerings, Nolan McLean got off to a perfect start, retiring the first 15 batters he faced, including eight strikeouts -- fanning five batters in a row spanning the second and third innings. 

McLean's perfect game bid ended in the sixth inning, when Matt Wallner led off and lined a clean single to left on a 1-0 two-seamer. After a standing ovation from the crowd, McLean quickly turned the page, getting Royce Lewis to fly out to right field and Brooks Lee swinging on a bugs bunny curve. But with a chance to escape the inning, McLean served up a two-run homer to Byron Buxton that sliced the Mets' lead to 3-2. 

After notching his 10th strikeout to get the first out of the seventh inning, McLean faltered, serving up a double to Kody Clemons and run-scoring single to Luke Keaschall as Minnesota knotted the game, 3-3. McLean got the second out as Lindor made a stellar play on a grounder, ranging behind the second base bag before nabbing Matt Wallner at first base. But that's where McLean's night would end. 

Brazoban relieved McLean and extinguished the threat, needing just one pitch to get Lewis to fly out to left field. 

McLean's final line: three runs on five hits with no walks and 10 strikeouts in 6.2 innings. The 10 strikeouts were one short of McLean's career high.

- With Juan Sotoexpected to be activated off the IL ahead of Wednesday's game, the Mets on Tuesday trotted out another iteration of the lineup -- with Marcus Semien leading off, Bo Bichette batting cleanup, and Carson Benge ninth. 

The new lineup started off slow against former Mets prospect Simeon Woods Richardson, who entered the game with a 6.10 ERA and 1.59 WHIP in 20.2 innings over his first four starts of the season. The only Met to reach base over the first two innings was Bichette, who looped a single to right field. 

Things changed for the Mets in the third inning against Woods Richardson. Mark Vientos lined a sharp single to left field leading off the frame, and was erased on Benge's ground out -- with Benge swiftly stealing second base. After Semien drew a walk, Francisco Lindorcame up and ran the count full before blasting a three-run homer into the second deck in right field to give New York a 3-0 advantage -- their first lead of two or more runs since April 7.

New York's hitters did a good job of making Woods Richardson work in the third and fourth inning, getting his pitch count up to 80.

Highlights

Upcoming schedule

The Mets and Twins continue their series on Wednesday night at 7:10. 

Clay Holmes will start for New York, while Minnesota has not yet announced a starter.

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Giancarlo Stanton breaks out to support Luis Gil’s gem in Yankees’ shutout win over Red Sox

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows New York Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton (27) hits a two-run double, Image 2 shows New York Yankees pitcher Luis Gil reacts after ending the second inning at Fenway Park

BOSTON — Giancarlo Stanton came into Tuesday in the midst of a skid and struggling against left-handers through the first month of the season.

So of course on a chilly night at Fenway Park, Stanton became the hottest hitter in town.

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The veteran DH drove in three runs, providing all the offense that Luis Gil needed in his best start of the season on the way to the Yankees’ fourth straight win, a 4-0 victory over the Red Sox.

Stanton was robbed of another extra-base hit in his final at-bat, but settled for going 2-for-4 with a solo home run and a two-run double, both off Red Sox lefty Connelly Early.

Entering Tuesday, he had been 1-for-21 and 0-for-17 overall against left-handers, with Aaron Boone giving him a breather Sunday for a double day off to combine with Monday’s scheduled off-day.

The result was Stanton looking like the hitter he was to start the season and continuing to mash at Fenway Park like he has throughout his career — now batting .316 with eight home runs and a .932 OPS in 40 games.

“It’s always a fun rivalry game, no matter where each team is in the standings,” Stanton said. “It’s just a good experience, a good pure baseball place to play. You’ve got to raise your game in those types of situations.”

That provided the support for Gil, who tossed 6 ¹/₃ scoreless innings even without his best stuff.

The right-hander, who could be on the outside looking in of the rotation crunch once Carlos Rodón and Gerrit Cole return from the injured list next month, allowed just two hits while walking three, hitting a batter and striking out a pair.

Giancarlo Stanton belts a two-run double during the sixth inning of the Yankees’ 4-0 win over the Red Sox on April 21, 2026 at Fenway Park. Jason Szenes for the New York Post

“My focus is to execute pitches, get strikes out there and then at the end, let them figure it out,” Gil said of the looming decision through an interpreter.

Despite his velocity being down in the frigid conditions, Gil found a way to be effective with some quick innings against a rough-looking Red Sox lineup.

In doing so, he continued his strong track record against the Red Sox (9-14), now having allowed just three earned runs in 33 ²/₃ career innings against them.

Brent Headrick, Tim Hill and David Bednar followed Gil to combine for the shutout, the second straight for the Yankees and the fifth of their season.

Luis Gil celebrates after getting out of the second inning in the Yankees’ road win over the Red Sox. Jason Szenes for the New York Post

Stanton’s big night began in the second inning, when Early threw him an inside slider that he crushed to the light tower above the Green Monster. Smoked off the bat at 111.5 mph, his third home run of the season gave the Yankees (14-9) a 1-0 lead.

“Just some really good at-bats, obviously to get us going with a G-esque moonshot,” manager Aaron Boone said.

Early only faced one batter over the minimum across the next three innings before Amed Rosario drew a leadoff walk in the sixth, sparking a rally.

Aaron Judge came up next and — after an unsuccessful automated ball-strike system challenge left him in an 0-2 count — worked another walk.

One out later, Stanton roped a full-count double off the Green Monster that scored both runners, with Judge chugging around from first and scoring on an aggressive send from third base coach Luis Rojas for the 3-0 lead.

Randal Grichuk later added an insurance run in the eighth inning, belting an RBI double to the gap to make it 4-0 and cap off a solid 2-for-4 night after entering the day 2-for-20 on the season.

Cody Bellinger reacts in front of second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. after he slides safely at home plate to score on an RBI double hit by right fielder Randal Grichuk during the Yankees’ road win over the Red Sox. Jason Szenes for the New York Post

But the most encouraging performance came from Stanton, who offered a reminder of the threat he can be in the middle of the order if he remains healthy.

Boone has been proactive in getting Stanton regular days off in an attempt to keep him fresh over the long haul, which could allow him to be another impact bat along with Judge and Ben Rice.

“He’s a huge presence for us and glad he’s gotten some big hits here early,” Boone said. “Obviously the difference for us tonight.”

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Nathan Church’s Big Blast Leads St. Louis Cardinals Over Marlins 5-3

MIAMI, FL - APRIL 21: Nathan Church #27 of the St. Louis Cardinals rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run in the fourth inning during the game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Lucas Casel/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

A fiery Dustin May had a solid start and JJ Wetherholt continued his on-base assault while Nathan Church flexed unexpected power as the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Miami Marlins Tuesday night.

It only took 4 pitches before JJ Wetherholt was on base as he ripped a 1st inning double to start the game. After Ivan Herrera struck out, Alec Burleson picked him up with a single to center that scored Wetherholt making i 1-0 Cardinals.

The Miami Marlins responded in the bottom of the 1st inning when Jakob Marsee hit a home run that hit the foam padding above the right field wall which was ruled a home run after an umpires review. Honorable mention goes to Jordan Walker, though, as he rifled the ball in from right field that would have nailed Marsee at third base if the umps hadn’t ruled the ball a home run.

The Cardinals would score again in the top of the 3rd inning when JJ Wetherholt walked and then advanced to third on a hit-and-run from Ivan Herrera. He would then score as his speed forced an errant throw by Connor Narby which sailed above the catcher making it 2-1 Cardinals.

St. Louis would extend the lead in the top of the 4th inning when Masyn Winn singled and scored on a long blast by Nathan Church making it 4-1 Cardinals.

Alec Burleson and Nolan Gorman helped the Cardinals add to their lead in the top of the 5th inning as Burleson hammered a line drive to the right-center field wall for a double. Nolan Gorman then went the other way on a 2-strike count dumping a single into left field scoring Burleson making it 5-1 St. Louis.

Masyn Winn then ripped a double to left field moving Gorman over the third. That knocked starter Chris Paddack out of the game for Miami as they turned to the bullpen for help. Former Cardinal John King kept the Cardinals from adding any more runs as he was able to get Nathan Church out on a ball that almost floated over second baseman Edwards.

Jordan Walker’s arm was featured yet again in the bottom of the 5th inning when Jakob Marsee singled to right, but Jordan fired the ball back into the infield to Gorman who was able to catch Marsee venturing too far off of first base and he was tagged out in a rundown which was a key play in keeping Miami from scoring again.

Other than the awkward first inning home run to Marsee, Dustin May had nasty stuff (in a good way) as he only allowed 6 hits through 5 1/3 innings, struck out 5, only walked 1 and only gave up 1 earned run. The Marlins did make solid contact, but had little to show for it. Justin Bruihl was brought in to finish off the bottom of the 6th inning and he was able to get a groundout and a flyout to keep the game 5-1 Cardinals. Bruihl would also stay in the game through the bottom of the 7th and held the Marlins scoreless although 2 did reach base after he hit them.

Ryan Stanek was brought in to deal with the Marlins in the bottom of the 8th inning. He began by striking out Lopez, but then gave up back-to-back walks. After getting another strikeout, he walked another to load the bases. He then gave up a two-run single to Heriberto Hernández making it 5-3 Cardinals before he was removed by manager Oli Marmol. Here’s a fun fact: the name Stanek is of Slavic origin and means “one who achieves glory” which has yet to happen for the Cardinals. George Soriano was brought in to stop the run hemorrhaging which he did by striking out Norby. Riley O’Brien closed out the Marlins in the bottom of the 9th to seal the Cardinals 5-3 victory for his 7th save with some help from Pedro Pagés who made good use of the ABS system on a crucial 2-strike call. The win moves the Cardinals to 14-9 on the young season.

Offensive shoutouts to Alec Burleson, Ivan Herrera, Masyn Winn and Nathan Church who all had 2 hits for the Cardinals Tuesday night.

St. Louis will try to win the series Wednesday when they send Kyle Leahy to the mound against Janson Junk who will make the start for Miami. First pitch scheduled for 11:10am central time Wednesday.

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Please tell me this is the low point: Reds 12, Rays 2

It is hard to believe that this is the same team that recently had a six game win streak. Maybe the Rays were never that good, and the Yankees and White Sox just aren’t much competition?

Yesterday the Rays lost in part due to bad luck and less than stellar defense.

Tonight, the team fell apart just about every other way. This wasn’t bad luck. This was just terrible, no energy, no strategy, no hope baseball. Don’t let the almost respectable score fool you. This was a debacle.

Matz apparently met his match(z) in the Cincinnati lineup. In the first inning, Ely de la Cruz hit a two run home to put the Reds up 2-0. In the second inning, two Reds players each hit solo shots and it was 4-0.

Brian Anderson commented that Matz’s stuff seemed fine but his location is off. That is a very kind, nearly euphemistic way of saying the guy was nowhere near the strike zone. Three innings. Four walks. Throwing nearly more balls than strikes. I’d think most pitchers could do better blindfolded. Not only did he put the Rays in a big hole, but left a tired bullpen to get through six innings, with a day game tomorrow.

And believe me, the six bullpen innings were not pretty. Walks, hits, runs.

Altogether, the Rays 5 pitchers gave up 12 runs (include five home runs) and ten — TEN — walks. Just a disaster. The last pitcher was actually position player Ben Williamson, and he did not do any worse than the actual pitchers! A mere solo home run, practically a clean inning.

The Rays largely seemed flummoxed by Chase Burns, but then again they’ve been flummoxed in general for the last few games, and Burns is really good. In fact the only fun part of this game, in those moments in which I could pretend I wasn’t actually a Rays fan, was when they showed slow motion video of a Burns’ pitch that seemed to move in eight different directions as it crossed the plate.

The Rays managed to scatter a few singles. Jonathan Aranda managed to square one up and hit a two-run home run. But Burns was very effective for 5.2 innings, and the Cincinnati bullpen was equally tough for the Rays.

The best scoring opportunity came in the bottom of the ninth, when Kyle Nicolas, no doubt the low man in the Cincinnati bullpen (because that’s the sort of pitcher you throw in to pitch the ninth when you have a 10 run lead). Nicolas walked the bases loaded and then walked in two runs. He then gave up a very lucky (for the Rays) 2 run-double, a bloop hit that was barely fair, and made the score 12-6. But a lazy fly ball ended the rally and the game.

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Giancarlo Stanton shatters slump as Luis Gil stifles Sox in shutout

Apr 21, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Luis Gil (81) throws a pitch against the Boston Red Sox in the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images | David Butler II-Imagn Images

Boy, does it feel good to beat Boston.

The Yankees got their heads right over the weekend in their home sweep of Kansas City and carried that momentum to Fenway Park, handling the scuffling Red Sox in the first rivalry meeting of 2026. Luis Gil had little trouble shutting down a brittle Boston offense, and the previously-slumping Giancarlo Stanton smashed two extra-base hits to lead New York’s offensive attack. The Bomber bullpen took care of the rest of the paperwork in a 4-0 final as the Yanks collected their league-leading fifth shutout win.

In Gil’s previous outing, the Angels feasted on his fastball, taking him yard off the pitch three times in five innings. Tonight, though, a struggling Red Sox lineup simply couldn’t square him up. Gil allowed a pair of knocks in the first two innings, but from that point he did not allow a hit for the rest of the night. The fastball wasn’t the overpowering offering we saw in his rookie year—in the New England chill, he only averaged 93.6 mph on it—but the Red Sox just couldn’t make hard contact.

In the bottom of the sixth, the Yankees had just extended the lead to 3-0, giving him some extra cushion. He responded by retiring the top of the order in four pitches. He finally lost his command with two walks in the seventh, but some excellent relief work from Brent Headrick preserved his scoreless outing. He finished with 6.1 innings pitched, two hits, three walks, and two strikeouts, only permitting two Boston hitters to even reach scoring position.

The first of Stanton’s two salvos came in the second inning when he put one out of sight—at least, from the vantage point of the YES booth. Stanton’s 111.5 mph blast left the yard at such a high arc that neither Joe Girardi and Michael Kay really saw it go. The launch angle was an absolutely comical 41 degrees—usually a pop-up, unless you have freakish power like Stanton does. That swing busted him out of a 1-for-21 skid.

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Big G’s second big hit came following a pair of walks issued by Early to Amed Rosario and Aaron Judge. By this point in the game, Early was losing his edge, nibbling around the strike zone and playing with his food after getting to two strikes. Rosario walked on four pitches, but Judge worked his way back from 0-2 down. So did Stanton. Once he’d gotten the count full, Early was forced to re-enter the strike zone—and he was punished. Giancarlo pounded a changeup off the Monster, scoring both Rosario and Judge to supplement the Yankee lead.

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After surrendering lhis third free pass of the inning, Early was finally lifted. The Yankees went on to leave the bases loaded against reliever Jack Anderson—and José Caballero burned their final ABS challenge—but the damage was done.

An unlikely but welcome source helped add on against Anderson in the eighth inning. Ceddanne Rafaela began the frame with a spectacular leaping catch to rob Stanton of what would’ve been his third extra-base hit, but Cody Bellinger slapped an opposite field single to start a rally which was immediately converted by Randal Grichuk. Inserted into the lineup to face the left-handed Early, Aaron Boone opted to keep Grichuk in against the right-handed reliever. Grichuk rewarded the decision with a double into the left-center gap. Bellinger hustled around to score all the way from first to give New York a big insurance run.

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Boston’s Carlos Narváez led off the eighth with a single, leading to a call for Tim Hill—who delivered a quintessential Tim Hill performance. He got all three of Roman Anthony, Willson Contreras, and Masataka Yoshida to roll over on grounders to retire the side and set the stage for David Bednar in the ninth. The Yankee closer worked around a Rafaela single to complete the shutout, striking out pinch-hitter Jarren Duran for the 27th out.

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The Bombers seek to extend their winning streak to five games tomorrow night. It’ll be two top-flight lefties and former NL East foes facing off: Max Fried against Ranger Suarez. First pitch is once again set for 6:45 pm; as a Wednesday night game, coverage will be on Prime Video.

Box Score

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Celtics drop Game 2, homecourt advantage to 76ers, 97-111

Apr 21, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) and Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) dive for the ball in the first half of a game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images | Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

After an impressive 32-point win in game one on Sunday, Boston would face a more stout Philadelphia opponent in Game 2. The 76ers came out to play in game 2, ratcheting up the defensive intensity and shooting the ball with confidence all game. Philly would snatch a big road win, 97-111 to level the series. Jaylen Brown had 36 points, and Jayson Tatum 19 points in the home loss.

Boston started the gmae with the regular lineup of Derrick White, Sam Hauser, Neemias Queta, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Tatum nailed the game’s first shot of the night, a triple form the top of the key, a good early sign as JT was just 1/7 from downtown in game one. Sam Hauser’s relocation three-pointer was Boston’s second score of the game. Paul George hit a pair of two-point makes for Philly to make it 6-4 early.

Maxey was challenging Brown at half court, and JB drove past him and converted a nasty one handed dunk over Adem Bona. Brown whistled for a weak taunting technical foul after the play. Tatum was whistled for an offensive foul on a play as Oubre Jr. was clearly out of position, boos and chants raining down for the Refs at TD Garden early in the first quarter.

Jaylen Brown fed Derrick White for an open three-pointer as Boston tied the scores at 13 points. A play later Tatum drove all the way to cup to score with Bona trailing on the play as C’s fans found their voice once more. White drove and dumped it off to Queta, who hit a sweet floater over Andre Drummond who just checked into the game, Boston up 17-13 at the six-minute mark.

Hauser’s second triple gave the C’s a seven point lead, as rookie VJ Edgecombe limped back to the change rooms, after hitting the parquet hard on a rebounding miss. Payton Pritchard and Nikola Vučević were the first players off the bench for Boston and Pritchard had a sweet dime immediately to Brown for a left handed lay up. Vučević nailed his first three-pointer of the game, Boston up by 13 points, 26-13.

Philly went on a quick 10-0 run to cut the Boston lead back to just 3 points with Tatum on the bench. Paul George had a tip in for the visiting 76ers at the buzzer, Boston up by 3 points after one quarter, 28-25.

Derrick White and Jaylen Brown took a seat to start the second quarter, as Jayson Tatum and Hauser returning to the lineup. Baylor Scheierman hit his first triple of the game to open the second quarter, with Vučević on the assist. Boston had 4 early turnovers to start the game, handing the 76ers a pair of easy transition layups. Paul George drilled a corner triple to cut it back to a one point game, Boston up 35-34 at the 9-minute mark.

Veteran big man Andre Drummond fueled the Sixers back into the lead, 40-41, he scored 5 straight points for Philly in a decent stretch of minutes. Brown and White returned to the game and JB immediately got to his spot at the free throw line with Maxey on his hip, he was fouled and hit both free throws to retake the lead.

Philly was shooting the ball well to start game 2, they were shooting at a blistering 52% clip from three, going 10-19 to start the game. VJ Edgecombe dunked it home on the break for his fourteenth point of the night, Philly up 51-54. Edgecombe was outstanding for Philadelphia all half, he led all scorers with 20 points on 61% shooting from the field. Boston trailing 54-62 after the first half of play.

Apr 21, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) passes the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers in the first half of a game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images | Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Boston would need to make adjustments in the second half, as they left the Sixers with too many wide open looks from downtown. Boston had 7 turnovers in the half and shot just 1 from 8 from three in the second quarter.

Unfortunately, the Celtics came out flat to start the third quarter with more of the same, Jaylen Brown had a horrible cross court pass picked off, for Boston’s eighth turnover of the night. Paul George hit a triple and the 76ers up by 11 points, 56-67.

Jaylen Brown drove on Drummond to convert on a tough layup, his 17th point of the game. Tatum hit a pair of shots in the lane for Boston but they would need to get defensive stops to get back in the game as Philly kept the scoreboard ticking as Oubre Jr hit a pair of shots.

Jaylen Brown rattled a big time arching three-pointer over Andre Drummond as the Celtics cut it back to 6 points, 68-74 with plenty of time to go in the third quarter. Payton Pritchard finally got on the scoreboard for Boston with 5 minutes to go in the third.

The bench provided a spark for the home team in the third, Vooch, Walsh and Pritchard had good minutes in this mid-quarter stretch, Boston down by just 3 points. Edgecombe had five straight points for Philly to give the road team a buffer. Brown rattled in his 28th point of the night to keep the Celtics within striking distance, Philly by 7 points after three quarters, 77-84.

Derrick White hit a triple to open the scoring for Boston in the fourth. Pritchard’s step back jumper a play later got the score back to just 4 points. Paul George reeled off 5 straight points as Philly extended it’s lead back to 7 points. Tatum’s second three-pointer was timely for Boston, after going 2-13 in the series. Brown matched him with his own triple to cut the lead to 2 points.

Maxey nailed a pair of threes off the dribble for Philly as Boston continued to play drop coverage. It was a ten-point lead 89-99 with four to play. The 76ers were the more tougher team all game, hitting the big shots in a timely manner. Boston’s dismal three point shooting was the story of the night, as they had just 13 makes from 50 attempts.

The series now switches to Philadelphia for Game 3, as the Boston Celtics look to get things back on track on Friday 24th of April at 7pm EST.

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Tigers 4, Brewers 12: Defensive woes and a flailing bullpen sink Tigers

Apr 21, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers second baseman Gleyber Torres (25) reaches second base on a pitch in the dirt as Milwaukee Brewers second baseman David Hamilton (6) catches the ball during the first inning at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images | David Reginek-Imagn Images

After a road trip, it’s always nice to get home, and the Tigers were certainly happy to be back at Comerica Park. The first game of their series against the Brewers had Keider Montero on the mound for the Tigers, and Kyle Harrison up for the Brewers. Right now, before you continue reading this, I need you to look at a photo of Kyle Harrison and tell me he doesn’t look like Andy Dirks’ brother.

In the first inning, with two outs on the board, Jake Bauers singled. A Gary Sanchez groundout ended the inning, though. In the home half, Gleyber Torres was hit by a pitch with one out. A passed ball then allowed Torres to advance to second. Unfortunately, two outs came right on the heels of that boon and the Tigers did what they love to do: leave a man stranded.

Top of the second, and while it looked like the Tigers had their first out, Garrett Mitchell quickly called for a review, and at a very quick glance, he was right to, and the call was overturned, putting a man on first. Luis Rengifo drew a walk. Sal Frelick then followed that up with a single, which brought Mitchell home for the first run of the game. A perfectly placed bunt single from David Hamilton loaded the bases. Montero finally got the first out of the inning, but it soon got uglier. Bruce Turang singled, scoring two runs. Hamilton made a push for home but was tagged out. The Brewers were up by three at the mid-point of the second. In the home half, Riley Greene got a one-out single, and Spencer Torkelson singled right behind him, but the Tigers would leave both baserunners stranded.

Montero course corrected nicely in the third, getting the side out in order. The Tigers built up another opportunity in the bottom of the third. Kevin McGonigle got a two-out double, and Matt Vierling followed that with a walk, but once again the Tigers left two on base.

The fourth saw another 1-2-3 inning for Montero against the Brewers, something he and the team desperately needed if they hoped to overcome the gap in the score. Greene took a leadoff walk in the home half, then advanced to second on a wild pitch. Torkelson then walked. Hao-Yu Lee singled, and with the bases loaded, that was it for Harrison, who was pulled and replaced by Grant Anderson. Anderson’s first order of business was to induce a double play off the bat of Javier Baez, but the Tigers did score their first run of the game in Riley Greene. They’d have to settle for just the one run for now, though.

The Brewers once again went three-up, three-down in the fifth. In the home half, the Tigers continued to attempt to make something happen. Torres got a leadoff single, but a flyout and double play meant he didn’t get much of a chance to score.

Two outs into the sixth, Montero’s night was done. His final line for the game was 5.2 IP, 5 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 1 BB, 3 K on 88 pitches. We’ve certainly seen better from him this season, but it was nice to see a strong course correction after he floundered early in the game. He ended up getting 12 outs in a row before being pulled. Enmanuel De Jesus came out of the pen to replace him, and he got the final out of the inning. Trevor Megill came out of the Brewers pen in the bottom of the inning and got the Tigers out in order.

A nice streak of 15 outs in a row against the Brewers ended in the seventh with a two-out single to Hamilton. Blake Perkins then took a walk. A throwing error was charged to De Jesus on a pickoff attempt. Then Turang singled, bringing Hamilton home. Just an ugly inning, and it kept getting worse as a William Contreras line drive headed to left and scored another run. The Tigers managed to get out of the inning without more runs scoring, but when it was all said and done, the score was now 5-1 for the Brewers. Aaron Ashby was the new pitcher for Milwaukee in the bottom of the inning. Lee took a leadoff walk, even though the Brewers challenged a ball call, it was confirmed correct. With two outs, Torres walked as well, putting two men on. It was another case of Tigers Threaten But Do Not Score, though.

Gary Sanchez started the inning with a triple. Mitchell then got a triple of his own, scoring another run. Rengifo singled as Vierling just barely missed making the catch in right. This scored another run. No one was warming, so this is just how we live now. Sal Frelick walked. If you’re still reading at this point, you’re a real one. Hamilton then singled, which should have been a pretty run-of-the-mill grounder, but nope, instead it’s bases loaded. Can a whole team be charged with defensive indifference? De Jesus was finally pulled. Connor Seabold came in and decided to maintain the status quo by hitting Blake Perkins with a pitch to walk in a run. Sure, why not? The Tigers finally got their first out of the inning with a Turang flyout, but another run scored. Then a Contreras single brought in yet another one. A well-placed double into left by Bauers scored another run. 10 batters into this inning, and we still have only one out. Sanchez, in his second at-bat, grounded out, scoring a run, but also getting the Tigers a much-needed out. The Tigers finally got out of the inning, but seven runs scored, and everyone was a little worse-off personally for having watched it.

Jake Woodford was the new Brewers pitcher. Dillon Dingler reached thanks to a fielding error by Joey Ortiz, but was eliminated in a force out.

Ah, at last, a silver lining! POSITION PLAYER PITCHING! Jake Rogers came out for the top of the ninth, tossing his cute little eephus pitch, and with it, he collected his first career strikeout. He collected two outs before giving up a single to Hamilton. Blake Perkins hit a groundball that took an unexpected hop to keep it from being an out, but the Tigers did manage to get out of the inning without any runs scoring, so go Jake go! In the bottom of the inning, a pinch-hitting Colt Keith hit a one-out single. Wenceel Perez, also pinch-hitting, then singled. McGonigle came through, singling and bringing Keith home. McGonigle advanced to second on defensive indifference, and that was followed by a Vierline double, that scored two more runs. The mini rally was good for the soul, but a flyout to right ended the inning and the game.

Final: Brewers 12, Tigers 4

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Victor Wembanyama exits game, enters concussion protocol after nasty face-first fall on court

This looked bad when it happened, and it could mean the Spurs will be without their Mr. Everything for a few games.

San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama had to exit Game 2 of its playoff series against Portland and is now out for the night and in the league's concussion protocol following a nasty fall in the second quarter, one in which he landed face-first on the court.

The injury occurred on a play with 8:57 left in the second, where Wembanyama tried a spin move in the paint and was fouled by Jrue Holiday. As he went to the ground, Wembanyama tried to pass the ball, and with that, was unable to protect his head as he hit the court. Warning: The video is hard to watch (and not for the squeamish).

After the fall, Wembanyama remained on the ground for about 30 seconds, then sat up and talked to teammates and Spurs staff for another minute before getting up and jogging back to the locker room. He did not return.

The NBA's concussion protocol says he cannot engage in any physical exertion for the next 24-48 hours, followed by a detailed, multi-step return-to-play protocol that includes him not showing symptoms through several steps of increased physical exertion (from a stationary bike to jogging to on-court work). All of this is monitored and approved by a league-appointed physician who specializes in neurological issues.

An extended absence could be trouble for the Spurs, who are the No. 2 seed in the West and have a number of high-level young players, but everything was built on a foundation of what Wembanyama can do on both ends of the court. Pregame he was handed his first Defensive Player of the Year award — the youngest player ever to win it, and also the first to do so unanimously — plus he averaged 25 points, 11.5 rebounds and 3.1 blocks per game this season.

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Reeling Mets can’t heap pressure on Juan Soto’s return: Carlos Mendoza

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Juan Soto, who is expected to return from the IL Wednesday, throws before the Mets-Twins game on April 21, 2026

The most tangible glimmer of hope for the Mets on Monday occurred hours before they attempted to snap an 11-game losing streak.

Juan Soto, out since early April, sprinted from home to first base, then from first to third before running from second to home, simulating different baserunning scenarios.

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Meanwhile, manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed Soto — pending any last-minute setbacks — is expected to return from his right calf strain Wednesday.

That meant the Mets opened their three-game series against the Twins and their nine-game homestand at Citi Field with some peace of mind, knowing their $765 million outfielder — one of their only productive hitters before sustaining the injury in San Francisco — was set to return to the lineup. Questions remain about how they’ll balance his time in the field and at designated hitter. But the desperate Mets need a jolt, and Soto’s presence alone will be tasked with providing just that.

“It definitely helps,” Mendoza said pregame, “but we cannot put all the pressure on one player. We got a lot of good players in there that, unfortunately, they’re going through it for quite a bit now. Yes, his presence in the lineup — nobody’s going to deny that. But putting all the pressure, ‘Oh we’re gonna have Juan Soto now’ and all of a sudden you start winning, that’s not fair for him either.

“But adding him to the lineup will definitely help.”

Soto, who logged 160 games last season during his first year in Queens, hasn’t played during the losing streak.

When he injured his calf running from first to third April 3, the Mets were hovering around .500. He was hitting .355 with a .928 OPS, and the Mets managed to overcome his absence with three consecutive wins at first.

But then the losing streak began.

Juan Soto, who is expected to return from the IL Wednesday, throws before the Mets-Twins game on April 21, 2026. Robert Sabo for New York Post

The Mets were outscored 62-19 entering play Monday. Everyone in the lineup largely stopped hitting, failing to maximize at-bats the way Soto often does.

One year after finishing third in National League MVP voting, Soto had already collected 11 hits and launched a homer in just eight games.

All it took for a return was one more day of full baseball activity — hitting, defense, running the bases, all of it — for Soto that served as his final test.

He didn’t require a rehab assignment, but the Mets were still cautious with his return, trying to ensure that they won’t lose their superstar again to the same injury. That approach will continue even after he officially gets activated.

“We’re gonna have to manage that,” Mendoza said of Soto’s workload. “We still have a decision here whether we want to DH him [Wednesday] and then play in the outfield, or if he goes and plays the outfield [Wednesday], he’s gonna have to DH. We’re not gonna play him back-to-back, 18 innings at least, on the field. So he’s gonna need days off as well, but hopefully [Wednesday] is just the beginning of it with him in the lineup and then we’ll go from there.”

But the placement of Soto in the field isn’t the most pressing concern facing the Mets. They have a manager on the hot seat and a president of baseball operations whose offseason decisions are all backfiring. They entered Monday with the franchise’s longest losing streak since 2004. Their rotation has struggled. Their bullpen has struggled. Their lineup has struggled. Everything that could possibly go against the Mets seemingly has.

If they have any chance at fixing their sinking season, they need things to start going in their way. And for one night, that was the case with Soto and his looming return.

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Victor Wembanyama concussed after face-first fall in Spurs’ loss to Trail Blazers

Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) sits on the court after a hard fall during the first half in Game 2 of San Antonio’s first-round playoff series with Portland.Photograph: Eric Gay/AP

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama was placed in the NBA’s concussion protocol after tumbling face-first to the court during Tuesday night’s playoff loss to Portland.

“He has a concussion. He’s in the protocol,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said after San Antonio fell 106-103 to even the Western Conference first-round series at one game apiece. “We’ll take the proper and appropriate steps.”

Related: LeBron James is 41. And he’s somehow still carrying his team in the playoffs

Any extended absence by Wembanyama would be a massive blow to San Antonio, which finished with the league’s second-best record behind their 7ft 4in center, who won this year’s NBA defensive player of the year.

Under league guidelines, a player in the concussion protocol must have at least 48 hours of inactivity and recovery and then hit several benchmarks without symptoms before being cleared to play. A player must undergo neurological testing and receive a final clearance from a team doctor in consultation with the league’s concussion protocol director.

Game 3 is Friday in Portland. It seems improbable that Wembanyama would be cleared by then, but Johnson wouldn’t speculate about his status.

“The protocol is the protocol,” Johnson said. “We’ll just follow it as everyone else does and plan accordingly.”

The Spurs went 12-6 during the regular season without Wembanyama.

“We’ve all got to step up,” Spurs guard Devin Vassell said. “We know what Vic brings to the table. We’ve played without him for a couple games this year. It’s going to be next man up. Everybody’s going to have to step up. That’s a huge void to fill. We can’t get bogged down by it.”

Wembanyama was fouled by Jrue Holiday after he spun around the Trail Blazers point guard in the paint. He was not able to brace himself on the fall, and his jaw hit the court with 8:57 remaining in the second quarter.

Wembanyama remained on the court for about 30 seconds before sitting up for about a minute and speaking to teammate Stephon Castle. Johnson called a timeout to check on Wembanyama, who immediately ran through the tunnel after getting to his feet.

Veteran Luke Kornet replaced Wembanyama and started the second half at center, finishing with 10 points and nine rebounds in 28 minutes.

“It was scary. I saw the images. It was not good,” Trail Blazers coach Tiago Splitter said of the play where Wembanyama got hurt. “With him out, Kornet, I think he did a tremendous job. We still have to figure out how to play better when Kornet is on the court.”

San Antonio are in the playoffs for the first time since 2019 and beat Portland in Game 1 of the Western Conference first-round series behind 35 points from Wembanyama. Without him, the Spurs blew a 14-point fourth-quarter lead in the playoffs for the first time since 2003, a span of 76 games.

Vassell said he didn’t have a chance to talk with Wembanyama immediately after the game.

“We’ll definitely check in on him. Our prayers are with him,” Vassell said. “We just want him to be good.”

In Tuesday’s other games, VJ Edgecombe had 30 points and 10 rebounds while playing through pain after taking a hard fall early in the game, Tyrese Maxey scored 29 points and the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Boston Celtics 111-97 to tie their playoff series at 1-1. Meanwhile, LeBron James had 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, and short-handed Los Angeles outlasted Houston for a victory and a stunning 2-0 lead in their playoff series.

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Hold up, wait a minute … Edgecombe, Sixers steal Game 2 in Boston

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 21: Vj Edgecombe #77 of the Philadelphia 76ers and Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers react in the second quarter of a game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on April 21, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Playoff. VJ. Edgecombe.

The Sixers shocked the Boston Celtics with a 111-97 win in Game 2 Tuesday night, tying the series at 1-1.

Tyrese Maxey had a much easier go of it, putting up 29 points and nine assists shooting 11-of-28 from the floor. Edgecombe had his playoff coming out party, having a team-high 30 points, shooting 12-of-20 from the floor along with 10 rebounds.

Paul George importantly got off to a great start, going for 19 on 7-of-13 shooting. Jaylen Brown led all scorers with 36.

Joel Embiid (appendectomy surgery recovery) remained the only player unable to suit up due to injury.

Here are some thoughts at the buzzer.

First Quarter

  • The process of these teams was on display early, with the Celtics knocking down two quick threes while PG slowly backed down his defender for a midrange pull-up on the Sixers’ first two possessions. There were plenty of fireworks early as Brown was called for a technical foul for how hard he dunked on Adem Bona. Even with that, the Sixers started the game as well as possible, making six of their first eight field goal attempts.
  • Making a three-pointer was the only thing the Sixers didn’t do in their good start. The Celtics made five early as they ripped off a 16-0 run in response. During this stretch, Edgecombe landed hard on his lower back and legs. He gingerly limped back for a brief trip to the locker room before returning to the game in the second.
  • The run was finally ended with a Maxey pull-up three. The Sixers would surrender an offensive rebound on the ensuing possession, but Maxey had the best box out by a Sixer in years to secure the rebound on the second attempt. Andre Drummond was able to putback a miss, Quentin Grimes made his first three of the night, and a Maxey pick-six made it a 10-0 Sixers run in response. George was able to put back a missed Grimes’ floater to pull the Sixers within three after the first.

Second Quarter

  • Personnel is a big reason for their rebounding struggles, but it’s astonishing how unprepared the Sixers look for long rebounds. Payton Pritchard pulled down the Celtics’ sixth offensive board of the night just two possessions into the quarter. The minutes with Maxey on the bench got off to a rough start, but Drummond poking away a steal turned that around as they followed up with back-to-back threes from Grimes and George. Grimes blocking a Pritchard three from behind was a big stop in this stretch.
  • The Sixers kept this play going out of Boston’s timeout as well. A three and another putback from Drummond briefly put them back in front. Edgecombe returned to the game and hit a pull-up, then grabbed an offensive board. A negative worth monitoring though was Jayson Tatum being able to bait George into his third foul of the night.
  • Despite turning it over immediately after pulling down an impressive offensive rebound, Edgecombe continued to look really good coming back from the fall. He was finally able to knock down some threes, hitting four in the half, and threw down a transition dunk in a crowd of defenders. As a team the Sixers were rewarded for their hustle. Kelly Oubre Jr. missed the free throw to convert an and-1, but Dominick Barlow fought to grab the offensive rebound that led to another Edgecombe three.
  • The Sixers still struggled to keep the Celtics off the offensive glass, but they were able to hold the Celtics without a field goal for the final 2:05 of the half. Barlow took an inadvertent elbow to the face on Brown’s last shot, but replay upheld that no foul occurred and the Sixers took an eight-point lead into the break.

Third Quarter

  • George drilling a pull-up three was a great start to the second half, as was Boston’s field goal drought continuing. It took the Celtics two and a half minutes into the third to snap the drought. The bad news for Philly was Edgecombe re-aggravating his injury and going back to the locker room two minutes into the half.
  • Brown getting to the rim did get both of the Jays going. Brown easily drove to the basket again, as did Tatum, before Brown hit a pair of threes. Oubre finally hit his first three of the series, then drove for a couple of layups himself to keep the Celtics at arms’ length.
  • Regression to the mean hit George the hardest. He airballed a couple of threes and threw a bad turnover as the Celtics slowly nibbled away. Thanks to Maxey and Oubre flying around the perimeter the Sixers were able to force a big shot clock violation, especially since Edgecombe came right down the floor and nailed a three (A result of the Sixers finally putting Nik Vucevic in an action in space, no less). Edgecombe got to the basket two more times coming out of a timeout to keep the Sixers’ lead at seven going into the fourth.

Fourth Quarter

  • White drilling a three off the catch and Pritchard beating Adem Bona off the dribble for a bucket made things hairy quick. Justin Edwards responding with a three is just what the Sixers needed. PG chipped in with a midrange and a trip to the line. Edwards’ night had felt more quiet than his Game 1 performance, but his four rebounds and swat on a Brown jumper were huge.
  • Open misses continued to haunt the Sixers. Two open threes clanked off, then Bona missed a layup before five points from the Jays made it a one-score game again. Maxey had really cooled off but picked a good time to nail a pair of threes to force a Celtics timeout. Edgecombe made a great read to pick off a pass coming out of the timeout and Maxey drew an offensive foul, helping the Sixers respond with five points of their own.
  • Brown pulled up trying to draw a foul on a three. While he didn’t get the call, the three falling was a big shot for Boston. Edgecombe was able to respond with another one of his own, then Maxey wove his way to the basket for an acrobatic layup that turned into an and-1. Brown was able to hit another tough three a few possessions later, but Joe Mazzulla had already sent the end of his bench to the scorer’s table to call it for the night. The conclusive victory the Sixers pulled off prompted a tweet from their most online player.
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Giancarlo Stanton drives in three, Luis Gil cruises as Yanks beat Red Sox for fourth straight win

The Yankees beat the Boston Red Sox 4-0 on Tuesday night at Fenway Park.

New York has now won four in a row. 

Here are some takeaways...

- Giancarlo Stanton came into the night with a career .904 OPS at Fenway and it didn't take long for him to build on that, crushing a homer over the Green Monster to open the scoring leading in the second. It was Stanton's third of the season, and his second in his last four games. 

Boston starter Connelly Early held the Yanks there for the next three innings, but Stanton struck again in the sixth, making him pay for a pair of walks with a two-run double off the monster. The slugger enjoyed himself a much-needed big night at the plate after coming in hitless in his last nine at-bats.  

- Luis Gil led the way on the other side of things for New York, delivering his best outing of the season to this point. The young right-hander had to work around traffic in each of the first three innings, stranding a man on second in the first and second, before brushing off a one-out walk in the third. 

Gil's first clean inning of the night was a six-pitch fourth. He then hit a man leading off the fifth, but went right back to cruising with some help from a double-play ball just three pitches later. Gil enjoyed another five-pitch shutdown inning after the Yanks extended the lead in the sixth.  

The 27-year-old ran out of steam in the seventh, leaving after issuing back-to-back walks. Brent Headrick entered and retired the next two batters to close Gil's line with no runs allowed on two hits and three walks while striking out just two batters over 6.1 innings of work. 

Gil now has a stellar 0.80 ERA in six career outings against the Red Sox. 

- Randal Grichuk gave the Yanks an insurance run in the eighth, lining a one out RBI double into the left-center gap. Grichuk has gotten off to a bit of a slow start offensively this season, but he put together his first multi-hit game and has how driven in runs in two straight. 

- David Bednar worked around a two-out single to close out the victory in the ninth. 

- Jazz Chisholm Jr has struggled to find his groove at the plate, but he also enjoyed his first multi-hit game of the season. The lefty-hitting infielder laced a single up the middle against Early in the top of the second and reached on a bunt hit to keep the inning going in the sixth. 

- Aaron Judge didn't do much damage but he was able to reach safely three times on the night, lining a two-out single in the top of the seventh and drawing a pair of walks. The big man is still hitting just .235 on the season, but he's also racked up a strong .337 OBP and .931 OPS.

- Ben Rice's four-game homer streak came to an end, as he went hitless across four at-bats. 

Game MVP: Giancarlo Stanton

The big man paced the offense with a much-needed big night at the plate. 

Highlights

What's next

Max Fried takes the ball against Ranger Suarez in a battle of southpaws on Wednesday at 6:45 p.m.