Message of Motivation Fuels Yankees’ Drive
The New York Yankees’ clubhouse buzzed with energy on Tuesday night. A bold message lit up the electronic board: “Win Tomorrow Fly Thursday.” The Yankees’ commanding 11-4 win over the Dodgers set the stage for a flight to Los Angeles, drawing inspiration from the Boston Red Sox’ legendary 2004 postseason comeback.
The Red Sox’ rallying cry, “Don’t Let Us Win Tonight,” sparked their rise from a 3-0 series deficit to claim their first World Series title since 1918. Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo hinted at a similar ambition, stating, “I’d like to make another one.”
Despite their fierce rivalry, the Yankees are now taking a page from the Red Sox’ playbook. “We love history and want to make our own,” said third baseman Jazz Chisholm. “We’re aiming to accomplish something that’s never been done. I want my name in that history book.”
Offensive Explosion Powers Yankees Past Dodgers
The Yankees’ offense roared to life, launching three home runs off different Dodger pitchers. They also weathered a powerful homer from Dodgers’ first baseman Freddie Freeman. The win re-energized the Yankees’ clubhouse and restored their confidence.
“I feel like we’re getting into our groove,” said Chisholm. “We’re starting to hit well as a team. It hasn’t been like that throughout the playoffs, but now everyone is contributing.”
The Yankees’ relentless attack produced 11 runs, highlighted by a grand slam from Anthony Volpe. Their aggressive base running yielded five stolen bases—a feat not seen since 1898, according to OptaSTATS.
“We know we’re a strong team, and this game reminded us why we made it this far,” Chisholm said. “This isn’t easy, but we’re built for this moment. Who doesn’t want to make history? If anyone can do it, it’s this team.”
The Yankees’ fightback from a 3-0 series hole is a rare feat. In World Series history, 25 teams have faced a 3-0 deficit, with 21 being swept. Until now, no team had forced a Game 6 from that position. Rizzo drew on his experience from the 2016 Cubs’ comeback against the Indians. “We’ve won three games in a row before, so we can do it again,” he said.
Volpe’s Heroics Lead the Charge
The Yankees’ night didn’t start well. Freddie Freeman’s two-run homer in the first inning, his fourth of the Series, set a record for consecutive World Series games with a home run. But the Yankees stayed composed.
“It’s already happened in every game,” Chisholm remarked. “Two runs don’t faze us. This team can score quickly.”
Anthony Volpe’s heroics provided the breakthrough. Trailing 2-1 in the third inning, Volpe crushed a go-ahead grand slam off Dodgers reliever Daniel Hudson, electrifying the sellout crowd at Yankee Stadium. The 23-year-old lifelong Yankees fan, who idolized Derek Jeter, made history with two extra-base hits and two stolen bases—a World Series performance only Hall of Famer Eddie Collins had previously achieved.
“Yankee Stadium exploded,” said manager Aaron Boone. The stadium’s energy peaked as fans erupted in celebration. Reflecting on his moment, Volpe said, “I blacked out as soon as it went over the fence.”
Volpe’s impact didn’t end with his bat. He also delivered a dazzling defensive play in the ninth inning. As the game concluded, the crowd of 49,354 chanted his name in unison.
When asked where this moment ranked in his life, Volpe declared, “Number one. Definitely number one.” Playing in a World Series at Yankee Stadium and living out childhood dreams left a lasting impact.
Momentum Builds Toward Game 5
Other Yankees also found their form. MVP Aaron Judge, who struggled earlier in the playoffs, had a productive night. Catcher Austin Wells and second baseman Gleyber Torres made vital contributions as well.
Looking ahead, the Yankees aim to carry their offensive momentum into Game 5 in Los Angeles. Ace Gerrit Cole, who had a solid Game 1 outing, will take the mound. With closer Luke Weaver ready for action, the Yankees are confident.
“We’ve got the toughest part out of the way,” said Rizzo. “We won our first game. We’ve heard Kevin Millar’s speech plenty of times, and we plan to carry that momentum to LA. I can’t wait.”