Tampa Bay Rays Complete Sweep of New York Yankees

On April 13, 2026, the Tampa Bay Rays defeated the New York Yankees 5-4 at Tropicana Field, completing a three-game sweep of their division rivals. This marked the Rays' first sweep of the Yankees since 2021 and was highlighted by a standout performance from pitcher Drew Rasmussen, who returned from paternity leave to deliver six scoreless innings, allowing only one hit and striking out seven batters. Rasmussen's efficiency was notable, especially considering he had not pitched since April 1, 2026.

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Chandler Simpson played a pivotal role in the Rays' offense, going 3-for-4 with two runs scored and a stolen base. He initiated the scoring in the first inning with a single, advanced on a hit by Junior Caminero, and scored on a groundout by Yandy Díaz. Simpson's contributions continued in the second inning, where he hit an RBI single after Cedric Mullins tripled, extending the lead to 3-0. His performance throughout the series was instrumental, as he accumulated five hits and scored multiple runs.

Chandler Simpson impactful again as Rays finish sweep of Yankees

The Yankees, despite their early-season promise, faced difficulties, extending their losing streak to five games. They struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, with their offense often falling short against the Rays' pitching. In the seventh inning, the Yankees managed to narrow the gap to 3-2, with Cody Bellinger and Giancarlo Stanton driving in runs. However, the Rays responded quickly, with Simpson tripling and scoring on a sacrifice fly, pushing the lead to 4-2.

Drew Rasmussen Solid In Return, Rays Sweep Yankees With 5-4 Victory

In the ninth inning, Aaron Judge hit a two-run homer, his fourth of the season, bringing the Yankees within one run. However, Mason Englert, who secured his first career save, managed to retire the final two batters after intentionally walking Austin Wells, sealing the victory for Tampa Bay.

Rasmussen, Rays complete sweep of Yankees

This sweep not only boosts the Rays' record to 8-7, moving them above .500 for the first time this season, but also positions them as a competitive force in the American League East. The Yankees, on the other hand, fell to 8-7 and remain winless in one-run games this season, now holding a record of 0-6 in such matchups.

Drew Rasmussen Solid In Return, Rays Sweep Yankees With 5-4 Victory

Rays manager Kevin Cash praised Rasmussen's professionalism, stating, "He's such a pro... I know that he's been able to keep his body moving." Teammate Shane McClanahan echoed this sentiment, highlighting Rasmussen's character and readiness to perform.

Rays' Drew Rasmussen Dominates Yankees 5-4 After Daughter's Birth, Completes Sweep

Following this series, the Yankees are set to host the Los Angeles Angels, while the Rays will travel to Chicago to face the White Sox. The Yankees will aim to break their losing streak, while the Rays will look to build on their momentum from this successful series.

Rays' Drew Rasmussen Dominates Yankees 5-4 After Daughter's Birth, Completes Sweep