Rays complete 3-game sweep of Yankees with 5-4 win

Drew Rasmussen's 6 scoreless innings lead Tampa Bay to victory

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:38pm

An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic action of a baseball game, with players' forms and equipment blending into a vibrant, energetic composition.The Rays' decisive three-game sweep of the Yankees showcases the team's explosive offensive firepower and dominant pitching.St. Petersburg Today

The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the New York Yankees 5-4 on Sunday, completing their first three-game sweep of the Yankees since 2021. Drew Rasmussen pitched six scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out seven, to lead the Rays. Aaron Judge hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning to bring the Yankees within one, but the Rays held on for the win.

Why it matters

The Rays' sweep of the Yankees is significant, as the Yankees have been one of the top teams in the American League in recent years. The victory moves the Rays above .500 on the season and extends the Yankees' losing streak to five games, highlighting the competitive nature of the AL East division.

The details

Rasmussen, who was returning from paternity leave, was dominant on the mound, striking out seven batters without issuing a walk. The Rays scored three runs early, with Chandler Simpson, Junior Caminero, and Richie Palacios all driving in runs. The Yankees rallied late, with Cody Bellinger and Giancarlo Stanton bringing them within two runs, but the Rays held on for the victory.

  • The Rays completed their first three-game sweep of the Yankees since 2021.

The players

Drew Rasmussen

The Tampa Bay Rays pitcher who allowed one hit in six scoreless innings to earn the win.

Aaron Judge

The New York Yankees outfielder who hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning to bring the Yankees within one run.

Chandler Simpson

The Tampa Bay Rays outfielder who went 3-for-4, scored twice, and stole his seventh base of the season.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

The takeaway

The Rays' sweep of the Yankees is an important early-season statement, as they look to challenge the perennial AL East powerhouse. The performance of Rasmussen and the continued production from players like Simpson suggest the Rays have the talent to compete with the best teams in the league.