The Yankees summoned 21-year-old rookie George Lombard Jr. from Triple-A, and he made an immediate impact in a 5-4 win against the NL East-leading Atlanta Braves on Saturday.
The victory marked the third win in four games for the Yanks since Lombard's callup, with the team now 3-1 in his games. Lombard's sharp defense and big arm at shortstop, as well as his batting approach, have been crucial in the team's success.
Lombard's early impact on the game was evident in the fifth inning, when he drew a key walk against veteran lefty ace Chris Sale. He then homered in the seventh, giving the Yanks a much-needed boost.
Manager Aaron Boone praised Lombard's competitiveness, saying, "He's in the at-bat the whole way and it's just super competitive… He controls the zone and he's strong and he's got power. He's done outstanding."
Gerrit Cole, who earned his 1,000th strikeout as a Yankee in the fifth inning, also spoke highly of Lombard. "Seems like he's right at home," Cole said, noting Lombard's key walk against Sale and his opposite-field homer against Victor Mederos.
Lombard's confidence has grown since his callup, with the 21-year-old saying, "everybody's kind of welcomed me and gave me the confidence to keep doing my thing, keep playing my game." He has been a humbling influence on his teammates, who have praised his work ethic and desire to win.
However, the game was not without controversy. Both managers had issues with plate umpire Dan Merzel, with Walt Weiss getting ejected over a questionable balk on Sale that plated the go-ahead run in the fifth. Boone also got heated with Merzel over an automatic strike in Jose Caballero's at-bat.
The win was a much-needed boost for the Yanks, who have struggled to find runs since mid-June without Aaron Judge (rib fracture). The team's pitching staff has been a signature strength, but they have needed a spark to carry them through.
Lombard's all-around game and Spencer Jones' two RBI were the difference-makers in the game. The two Yankees rookies played starring roles in a 5-4 win against the Braves, with Lombard's early impact setting the tone for the team's success.
With the win, the Yanks remain in contention for a playoff spot, but they face a tough road ahead. The team will need to continue to rely on young players like Lombard to carry them through the season.
The Yanks will face the Braves again on Sunday, with Grant Holmes set to start for the visitors.
Source: Yahoo Sports