Yankees Smash Franchise Record with Nine Home Runs in Historic Win
The New York Yankees made history on August 29, 2023, by hitting a franchise record-tying nine home runs in a commanding 13-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. The game, which faced nearly two hours of rain and lightning delays, showcased the power of the Yankees’ lineup, particularly in the first inning when Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Giancarlo Stanton launched consecutive home runs, setting the tone for the blowout.
This remarkable achievement marks the second time this season that the Yankees have hit nine home runs in a single game, previously accomplishing the feat in March during a 20-9 win against the Milwaukee Brewers. With this performance, the Yankees have become the first team in Major League Baseball (MLB) history to record two games with nine home runs in one season, according to official MLB records.
Historic Offensive Performance
Manager Aaron Boone expressed pride in his team’s offensive prowess, stating, “To do it twice, that’s remarkable. There were some ones that were seriously hit, too. Just a really impressive offensive showing against a team that is not always easy to score runs against.” The Yankees fell just one home run short of the all-time MLB record of ten home runs in a game, set by the Toronto Blue Jays in 1987.
Bellinger, Stanton, and José Caballero each contributed two home runs, while Judge, Ben Rice, and Jazz Chisholm Jr. added one apiece. Bellinger remarked on the team’s chemistry, saying, “We have a really good offense. With the ebbs and flows of a 162-game season, it’s not always going to be pretty, but we all believe in each other. The talent’s there, and we’re doing a good job of putting it all together. It’s been fun to be a part of.”
Impact on Standings
The victory elevated the Yankees’ record to 68-57, placing them at the top of the American League Wild Card standings, although they remain five games behind the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East. The Rays’ loss dropped their record to 61-65, positioning them fourth in the division.
The second game of this series will take place on August 30, 2023, in Tampa, where the Yankees will look to build on their historic performance and secure another win against the Rays.
