New York City – The Yankees faced a devastating defeat in a crucial Game 5 of the World Series against the Dodgers, marking one of the most disastrous innings in Yankees history. A miscommunication between Yankees ace Gerrit Cole and first baseman Anthony Rizzo on a routine ground ball played a significant role in the Bombers’ loss as the Dodgers rallied to a 7-6 victory and clinched the 2024 World Series title.
Cole admitted to reporters that he took a bad angle to the ball and was unsure of the hit’s intensity off the bat. This led to a direct angle to the grounder, causing him to miss the opportunity to cover first base along with Rizzo. The Yankees were initially in control with a five-run lead at the top of the fifth inning, but their lead quickly crumbled due to a series of errors, including a botched throw to third base by shortstop Anthony Volpe and a misplayed line-drive catch by Aaron Judge.
During a critical moment in the game with two outs and the bases loaded, Dodgers star Mookie Betts hit a grounder to first base, where Rizzo failed to charge while Cole hesitated. Rizzo explained that the spin of the ball made it challenging to make a quick play, leading to the missed opportunity to secure the out at first base.
The Dodgers managed to score five runs in the fifth inning to tie the game, ultimately securing two more runs in the eighth inning to take the lead. As the Yankees reflected on the missed opportunities in the World Series, Rizzo faced uncertainty as a looming free agent, contemplating the future of the team and his role within it.
Rizzo, who joined the Yankees in July 2021 after being traded by the Cubs, acknowledged the emotional toll of the defeat and expressed gratitude for his teammates amidst the uncertain offseason. The loss in Game 5 not only ended the Yankees’ World Series hopes but also left Rizzo and the team facing a period of change and reflection as they assess their path forward.