Aaron Judge ignites an eight-run comeback as Toronto’s sweep hopes stall in hostile Yankee Stadium
NEW YORK – SPORTS REPORT – Just when it looked like the Toronto Blue Jays were about to broom the Bronx and punch their ticket to the ALCS, the New York Yankees stormed back with an eight-run rally to snatch Game 3 and extend the American League Division Series.
Final score: Yankees 9, Blue Jays 6.
Series score: Toronto leads 2-1, with Game 4 set for Wednesday night under the bright lights of Yankee Stadium.
Jays Strike Early, Then Go Quiet
The Jays came out swinging — literally. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. launched his third homer in as many games, a two-run shot in the first, and Anthony Santander added to the fireworks with a two-RBI single as Toronto chased Yankees starter Carlos Rodón by the third inning.
At 6-1, it looked like Toronto was cruising toward a series sweep — especially given their perfect record all season when leading by five runs. But that stat didn’t hold up in the pressure cooker of October baseball.
Bronx Bombers Wake Up
New York’s comeback started subtly — a misplayed fly ball in the fourth opened the door, and the Yankees bulldozed right through. Addison Barger couldn’t handle a tricky popup to shallow left, a ball that should’ve been snagged by incoming outfielder Davis Schneider. That defensive lapse gave the Yankees life.
And when Aaron Judge stepped to the plate with two on and one out, he didn’t miss. A towering shot off the left-field foul pole tied the game at six and ignited a Yankee Stadium roar that rattled the rafters.
An inning later, Jazz Chisholm Jr. took reliever Louis Varland deep to give the Yankees a lead they’d never relinquish.
Toronto’s Offence Vanishes
After scoring 29 runs in 19 innings to open the series, the Jays’ bats suddenly went ice cold — just 2-for-17 the rest of the way, both knocks by Ernie Clement, who went 4-for-4 on the night.
Meanwhile, the Yankees bullpen slammed the door. Toronto had no answer for the steady stream of arms New York threw at them.
Quick Hook on Bieber? Not Quite
Some fans might question pulling Shane Bieber after just 2 2/3 innings, but the numbers tell the story: despite a 6-1 cushion, he was getting shelled — balls were leaving bats at over 101 mph, and his command wavered. He allowed five hits, a walk, and three runs (two earned), and was pulled with the tying run at the plate.
Mason Fluharty got the Jays out of the jam temporarily, but the damage would pile up in the middle innings.
What’s Next?
Despite the stumble, the Blue Jays still hold a 2-1 series lead and have avoided using their top relievers — Seranthony Domínguez, Jeff Hoffman, and Eric Lauer are all rested and ready for Game 4. That could be the X-factor.
Toronto’s offence has battered every New York starter so far, so there’s no panic in the dugout — but they’ll need tighter defence and a bounce-back on the mound if they want to avoid a decisive Game 5.
Game 4 – Wednesday Night in New York
First pitch is set for 7:07 p.m. ET
Probable starters: Eric Lauer (TOR) vs. Clarke Schmidt (NYY)
