Max Fried earns first win since April as New York stays in AL East race
Category: Sports
MINNEAPOLIS – The New York Yankees quickly dispelled any concerns of a post-playoff celebration hangover by overpowering the Minnesota Twins, 8-1, on September 15, 2026, at Target Field. Max Fried delivered a standout performance, pitching seven strong innings, as the Yankees maintained their pursuit of the American League East title.
Fried (5-4) earned his first victory since April 27, allowing just one run on a two-out RBI single in the second inning. The left-hander threw 88 pitches, with 58 strikes, marking his longest outing since April 22. This performance came after he spent considerable time on the injured list due to a bone bruise in his elbow, and it is a promising sign as the Yankees gear up for the postseason.
Fried expressed satisfaction with his outing, stating, "It definitely was nice to be able to put what felt like a full start together, not as much limited by pitch count. I want to make sure I’m a little bit sharper coming down to the end. We got a big series coming up against Tampa for my next one, so just want to make sure I’m ready for that." His performance included six strikeouts and no walks, his first walk-free outing since April 11, 2026.
The Yankees wasted no time in supporting Fried, as Cody Bellinger kickstarted the offense with a two-run homer just two batters into the game. This marked Bellinger's 16th home run of the season and was part of a three-hit night that raised his batting average to .272. Manager Aaron Boone praised Bellinger, saying, "I feel like he’s been in a good spot now for a few weeks. His bat path has been in a really good place -- in the zone a long time, swinging at the right pitches." Over the last 17 games, Bellinger has been on fire, batting .377 with 26 hits in 69 at-bats.
As the game progressed, Spencer Jones added to the Yankees' lead with a three-run homer in the sixth inning off left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers. This home run made Jones the 11th player on the Yankees to hit double-digit home runs this season, a feat not accomplished since 2019. Boone noted, "I was easing him in. And he’s kind of kicked that door in." Jones has shown impressive performance against left-handed pitchers, batting .435 with a 1.251 OPS in 46 at-bats against them this season.
The Yankees showcased their offensive depth, racking up 14 hits in total, with every starter contributing at least one hit. Notably, rookie shortstop Kaelen Culpepper was pulled from the game due to left hamstring tightness, adding to the Twins' woes as they fell to 70-81, marking their seventh loss in the last 23 games.
This victory came just a day after the Yankees celebrated clinching a playoff spot, and it was clear the team was focused on maintaining momentum as they approach the postseason. With the win, the Yankees improved to 88-63, remaining 3.5 games behind the Tampa Bay Rays, who lead the AL East. The Yankees have 11 games left in the regular season, including a four-game series against the Rays next week, which could prove decisive for the division title.
Fried's performance is particularly encouraging for the Yankees, who will rely on him heavily in the postseason. Since returning from the injured list, Fried has posted a 1.83 ERA with 50 strikeouts over 44 1/3 innings in nine starts after the All-Star break. His ability to pitch deep into games will be instrumental as the Yankees navigate the final stretch of the season.
The Yankees' lineup has also shown remarkable depth this season, with 11 players now boasting at least 10 home runs. This offensive firepower is a key advantage as they prepare for potential playoff matchups. Bellinger and Jones are both peaking at the right time, providing a potent combination that could propel the Yankees deep into October.
Looking ahead, the Yankees will continue their series against the Twins with Carlos Rodón scheduled to start the final game of the series on September 16, 2026. Rodón, who has a record of 6-3 and a 2.94 ERA, will be tasked with maintaining the team's winning momentum. The Yankees will need to capitalize on this series to solidify their position in the standings before facing the Rays.
As the postseason approaches, the Yankees are focused on refining their game and ensuring that their key players, including Aaron Judge, who was rested during the game against the Twins, are healthy and ready for the challenges ahead. Judge's recent return from a broken rib adds another layer of complexity to the Yankees' lineup as they strategize for the playoffs.
Fried's performance against the Twins boosts his confidence and serves as a reminder of the depth and talent within the Yankees' roster. As they prepare for their upcoming series against Tampa Bay, the excitement within the clubhouse is evident. "It's going to be playoff baseball," said Fried. "I can't wait for next week." The Yankees remain determined to make a strong push for the division title as they head into the final weeks of the regular season.