In a stunning performance during Game 1 of the American League Championship Series, New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodon dominated the Cleveland Guardians and made history along the way.
Rodon pitched six innings, allowing just one run and leading the Yankees to a 4-1 advantage when he exited the mound. His ability to strike out nine batters and achieve 25 swings and misses set a new postseason record for MLB’s pitch-tracking era, which began in 2008.
Previously, the record was held by Yankees teammate Gerrit Cole, who managed 23 whiffs in the 2020 Wild Card series against the Guardians. Cole had 13 strikeouts over seven innings in that game, which the Yankees won decisively.
Rodon showcased his skills beautifully, particularly with his signature four-seam fastball, netting 12 swings and misses while delivering 52 pitches—39 for strikes. He also had nine whiffs with his slider, three with his changeup, and one with his cutter, highlighting a masterclass in pitching that set the Yankees’ bullpen up well for the series ahead.
Rodon’s regular season saw him finish with a 16-9 record and a 3.96 ERA over 32 starts. This marked an impressive recovery from a tough previous year, where he struggled with a 3-8 record and a 6.85 ERA, contributing to the Yankees missing the postseason.
In the Wild Card round against the Kansas City Royals, Rodon’s performance was less stellar, yielding four runs in just 3.2 innings. However, he seized his opportunity in the ALCS with a powerful start.
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Starting pitching is believed to be a strong edge for the Yankees this series, with Gerrit Cole set to take the mound for Game 2 on Tuesday. Clarke Schmidt and Luis Gil are expected to pitch Games 3 and 4 in Cleveland, each able to deliver solid innings.
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The Guardians struggled with quality starts during the season, and this weakness was apparent in Game 1 as starter Alex Cobb permitted three runs in just 2.2 innings.