The New York Yankees pitching has been stellar so far this postseason, allowing just seven total runs over three games. The starting pitching has been solid, the bullpen has been active, and closer, Aroldis Chapman, has done his job to near perfection in his two appearances. Over two innings, he has for strikeouts, two walks, one hit, and no runs allowed.
However, Chapman almost went down with a crazy injury after Monday night’s win, which secured the ALDS for the Yankees and guaranteed them a spot in the ALCS against either the Houston Astros or Tampa Bay Rays.
According to Dan Martin of the New York Post, a bandage was wrapped around Chapman’s left hand, which is also his pitching hand. This occurred after the victory while the team is celebrating in the clubhouse. A bottle of champagne struck the hand of Aroldis, which forced him to ice it and ensure it wouldn’t affect his future performances.
“I was just celebrating, and everyone was jumping around. I got hit with a bottle, but it’s fine,” Chapman stated after the incident.
The New York Yankees almost lost another player on Monday:
In addition to Chapman‘s injury, relief option Zack Britton left in the eighth inning after jamming his ankle at first base. The pitcher stated he would be fine and that he would not miss any time due to the ailment. Having two influential players come close to suffering severe injuries is undoubtedly not how the Yankees envisioned starting their postseason.
Luckily, they were able to escape without anything serious, which is better than the frequency of injuries during the regular season. Chapman has 37 saves on the year, the second-highest in his career. The much-needed rest the Yankees will enjoy due to the sweep of the Twins will give them an advantage going to the ALCS. Houston and Tampa Bay are currently tied up at two apiece and will play the third game on Thursday night.