The Yankees entered this series finale with the Indians having a 2-1 series lead. With a win, they’d take the set; with a loss, they’d spilt. Plus, CC Sabathia was on the bump for the Yanks for the first time since returning from the injured list.
The Indians threatened early in the first inning. It started off well with Francisco Lindor getting robbed of a base hit by Didi Gregorius. Oscar Mercado followed that with a bloop single into right, before stealing second base. To make matters worse, Gary Sanchez air-mailed the throw into center, so Mercado advanced to third.