Rays Closer Englert Earns First Save Despite Shaky Outing

Englert allowed a two-run homer to Aaron Judge but closed out the game against the Yankees.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 8:33am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the intense motion and energy of a baseball pitcher's delivery and a batter's swing, with the figures dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes and splatters of paint.A closer's shaky save attempt highlights the Rays' ongoing bullpen uncertainty as they search for a reliable late-inning option.Today in Tampa

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Mason Englert recorded his first save of the season on Sunday, but it was not without some drama. Englert entered the ninth inning with a 5-2 lead, but he allowed a two-run home run to Yankees slugger Aaron Judge before getting the final out to preserve the 5-4 victory.

Why it matters

The Rays have been using a closer-by-committee approach this season, so Englert's save opportunity was significant. However, his shaky outing raises questions about the team's bullpen and closer situation moving forward.

The details

Englert came in to close out the game for the Rays, but he struggled, allowing three hits and two earned runs on 21 pitches. After giving up the two-run homer to Judge, Englert was able to get Ryan McMahon to ground out with runners on first and second to end the game.

  • Englert entered the game in the top of the 9th inning with a 5-2 lead.

The players

Mason Englert

A relief pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays who recorded his first save of the season on Sunday.

Aaron Judge

The star slugger for the New York Yankees who hit a two-run home run off Englert in the 9th inning.

Ryan McMahon

The Colorado Rockies infielder who grounded out to end the game against the Rays.

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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

What’s next

The Rays will continue to monitor their closer situation and evaluate Englert's performance as they look to solidify the back end of their bullpen.

The takeaway

Englert's shaky outing highlights the Rays' ongoing closer uncertainty, as the team continues to search for a reliable option to protect late-inning leads.