The New York Yankees showcased their late-game prowess again, defeating the Toronto Blue Jays 8-3 on Sunday, thanks to a tiebreaking home run from Ben Rice in the ninth inning and a three-run blast from José Caballero.
Why it matters: This victory marks the Yankees' sixth win in their last seven games, solidifying their position as leaders in the American League East. The Yankees have now secured seven wins when scoring the go-ahead run in the ninth inning or later.
- Ben Rice's ninth-inning home run was his 19th of the season, driving in key runs to clinch the game.
- José Caballero contributed significantly with a three-run homer, bringing his season total to six.
- This win continues the Yankees' momentum, having previously won 3-1 against the Blue Jays on Saturday.
- Rice's performance highlights the Yankees' ability to capitalize on late-game opportunities.
Driving the news: The Yankees began the decisive ninth inning with Paul Goldschmidt reaching base on an infield single off Braydon Fisher, who took the loss for the Blue Jays. Following a throwing error by Fisher, Ryan McMahon pinch ran for Goldschmidt.
- After McMahon advanced to second, Rice launched a 381-foot home run to give the Yankees a lead.
- Jasson Domínguez and Jazz Chisholm Jr. walked before Caballero's powerful shot off Tommy Nance sealed the game.
- Camilo Doval earned the win, improving his record to 3-0 after a clean eighth inning where he struck out two batters.
State of play: The Yankees' offense was bolstered by Anthony Volpe, who had two RBIs and scored another run. He hit a two-out single in the sixth that temporarily restored New York's lead before Schneider's response.
- Volpe's contributions included back-to-back RBI hits in the second inning, helping the Yankees establish an early lead.
- Davis Schneider hit a solo home run for the Blue Jays, marking his second of the season, but it wasn't enough to shift the game's momentum.
- The Blue Jays faced challenges with key players missing; Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was sidelined for the second straight game due to back issues.
The big picture: The Yankees continue to demonstrate resilience, particularly in high-pressure situations. Their ability to perform in the clutch has been a hallmark of their recent success.
- New York improved to 43-27 with this win, maintaining a firm grip on the AL East standings.
- Toronto's manager, John Schneider, was ejected in the eighth inning for arguing a balk call that allowed Chisholm to advance to third base, highlighting the tension of the match.
- With this win, the Yankees are now 17-6 against left-handed pitchers this season.
What they're saying: Yankees players expressed confidence in their ability to rally late in games, a skill they have honed throughout the season.
- “We believe in each other, and we know we can come back at any time,” Rice said after the game.
- Caballero emphasized the importance of staying focused and taking advantage of every opportunity at the plate.
- Blue Jays manager John Schneider expressed frustration over the ejection, stating, “It’s tough to lose a game like that, especially when we were competing hard.”
By the numbers: The Yankees' offensive output included several notable performances.
- Volpe had two RBIs, contributing significantly to the Yankees' scoring efforts.
- Rice's home run was part of a five-run ninth inning that decisively turned the game.
- The Yankees now have a record of 6-1 in games where they score the go-ahead run in the ninth inning or later this season.
What's next: The Yankees prepare to face the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday, with RHP Gerrit Cole (1-1, 2.45 ERA) slated to start.
- The Blue Jays will begin a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox on the same day, looking to bounce back from this defeat.
- Neither team has announced starting pitchers for their upcoming games yet.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 14, 2026.