Story perspectives

Rasmussen’s 10 Ks, Judge injury leave Yankees down 1-0

By Drooid · Oct 4, 2026, 2:39 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Aranda Solo Homer

Jonathan Aranda hit a third-inning solo homer, accounting for the only run in the 1-0 victory.
Drew Rasmussen allowed one hit, two walks and struck out ten over eight scoreless innings.
Bryan Baker struck out pinch-hitter Giancarlo Stanton in the ninth to seal the win.
Aaron Judge missed the ALDS with a right calf strain, leaving the Yankees without their captain.

Summary

Rasmus Saves Dominance

Rasmus posted a 0.91 WHIP and 41 saves in the regular season, earning his second All-Star selection.
His career was derailed by two college elbow surgeries and a 2023 internal-brace procedure before his postseason return.
Rasmus holds a 1.81 ERA and a 5-2 record against the Yankees in 11 career appearances.
Rays pitching coach Kyle Snyder called him ‘the standard’ for success, citing his command and low walk rate.

History

Historical Context

In 1996, the New York Yankees captured the World Series as John Wetteland secured his 45th postseason save, solidifying the modern closer role. Wetteland posted a 0.78 ERA, struck out 70 batters in 58 innings, and recorded a 1.02 WHIP, the lowest among postseason relievers. Today, Rays’ Pete Rasmus mirrors that impact, posting a 0.91 WHIP with 41 saves, returning from two elbow surgeries to silence the Yankees in the 2024 ALDS. Wetteland’s precedent forced franchises to build deep bullpens, a strategy now evident as Aaron Judge’s calf injury heightens reliance on relievers like Rasmus.

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Aranda Solo Homer

Jonathan Aranda hit a third-inning solo homer, accounting for the only run in the 1-0 victory.
Drew Rasmussen allowed one hit, two walks and struck out ten over eight scoreless innings.
Bryan Baker struck out pinch-hitter Giancarlo Stanton in the ninth to seal the win.
Aaron Judge missed the ALDS with a right calf strain, leaving the Yankees without their captain.

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