Pinstripe Alley · Jul 16, 2019
Yankees drop series opener to Rays, 5-4
Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty ImagesJames Paxton just can’t escape the first inning without allowing a run.
This time, the uncharacteristic leadoff hitter Travis d’Arnaud took a pitch into the seats to begin the game. Paxton finished with a solid start, though, striking out a total of seven hitters while surrendering two runs in six innings of work. Besides two mistakes, Paxton was able to keep the game close, especially with great defensive plays supporting the southpaw. Aaron Boone came out during the top of the sixth to ask Paxton if he felt okay to stay in the game, and Paxton’s assurance proved to be correct. The left-hander got out of a one-out, two-on jam.