In a back-and-forth battle, the New York Yankees split their four-game series with the Los Angeles Angels. The Yankees haven’t won a series in three straight attempts, although their split with the Angels put an end to two consecutive series losses. These are the major takeaways from the Yankees’ performance this week.
Here Comes The Judge
After a slow start to the 2026 season, it’s clear the reigning American League MVP is back to form.
Against the Angels, Aaron Judge had a series to remember. He went deep four times, including twice in the Yankees’ dramatic 11–10 win that opened the series. Judge is now tied for the league lead in home runs with eight.
Along the way, Judge drove in five runs and raised his OPS from .783 to .918. It might’ve taken some time, but the most feared hitter in the American League is back.
A Red Hot Shortstop
In addition to Judge, Yankees’ shortstop Jose Caballero found new life with his bat against the Angels.
In 15 plate appearances, Caballero collected six hits, including a three-hit effort in the final game of the series. He also stole two bases in that game, giving baseball’s 2025 stolen bases leader eight on the season.
Despite Thursday’s herculean effort, Caballero’s best performance came in the game prior. In the bottom of the ninth inning, he came to bat with two runners on, one out, and the Yankees trailing 4–3. On the fifth pitch of the bat, he lined a double into the left-center gap that scored both runners, giving the Yankees a 5–4 walk-off victory over the Angels.
Pitching Struggles
The Yankees’ biggest strength turned into their biggest weakness this past weekend, as the starting rotation and bullpen had no answer for the Angels’ offense.
The long ball in particular gave the Yankees the most trouble. Coming into Monday’s series, the Yankees had allowed 10 home runs through the first 15 games of the season. However, in four games against the Angels, the Yankees gave up 13 home runs.
In addition to their struggles with the long ball, Yankee pitchers walked 18 batters. This marked only the third time in team history that the Yankees allowed 18 walks and 13 home runs in a single series.
Next Up
The Yankees stay put in the Bronx this weekend as the Kansas City Royals come to town for a three-game series. Cam Schlittler is scheduled to make the Friday night start for the Yankees, while Michael Wacha will get the ball for the Royals. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm Eastern.
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