Brief
Gerrit Cole holds Rays in check but Yankees fall 1‑0 in ALDS Game 1
Cole allowed one run in five innings, but the Yankees could not overcome the solo homer by Jonathan Aranda.
By Felo News Desk · Published
In Game 1 of the American League Division Series at Tropicana Field on Oct. 3, 2026, New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole pitched five innings, allowing a single run that proved decisive in a 1‑0 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, the New York Post reported.
What happened
Cole entered the game on nine days of rest and struck out five batters while issuing one walk. He gave up five hits, including a solo home run to Rays first baseman Jonathan Aranda in the third inning. After 82 pitches, Cole was removed and the Yankees relied on relievers Ryan Weathers, Paul Blackburn and Brent Headrick, who combined for three scoreless, hitless innings.
What was said
After the game, Cole told the Post, “It’s a pretty steep price to pay. He crushed it. That’s just the way it goes.” He added that he and manager Aaron Boone left their post‑game conversation “on the same page.” Boone later said Cole “got us off to a good start” but noted the Rays “made him work.”
Key facts
- Gerrit Cole pitched five innings, allowing one run on five hits. (nypost.com)
- Jonathan Aranda hit a solo home run in the third inning. (nypost.com)
- The Yankees lost 1‑0 to the Rays in ALDS Game 1. (nypost.com)
- Relievers Weathers, Blackburn and Headrick threw three scoreless, hitless innings. (nypost.com)
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Gerrit Cole mostly holds Rays in check — but just not enough in ALDS Game 1 loss”
