CLEVELAND – The initial two games of the ALCS were devoid of excitement.
However, the final two innings of Game 3 provided an abundance of thrills.
After both teams exchanged incredible home runs in the eighth and ninth innings, David Fry landed the decisive blow with a two-run homer off Clay Holmes in the 10th inning, propelling the Guardians to a 7-5 victory on Thursday night at Progressive Field.
David Fry #6 of the Cleveland Guardians reacts as he scores on his game-winning walk-off two-run home run. Jason Szenes / New York Post
Cleveland Guardians’ Jhonkensy Noel celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the New York Yankees during the XX inning in Game 3 of the baseball AL Championship Series Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, in Cleveland. AP
Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton hit consecutive home runs off Emmanuel Clase, giving the Yankees a 4-3 lead in the top of the eighth inning.
They even managed to extend their lead with an insurance run in the top of the ninth, but that only intensified the frustration when Jhonkensy Noel responded with a two-run homer off Luke Weaver, tying the game in the bottom of the ninth.
Cleveland Guardians’ Jhonkensy Noel celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the New York Yankees during the 9th inning in Game 3 of the baseball AL Championship Series Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, in Cleveland. AP
Having been just one strike away from securing a win that would bring them closer to their first World Series appearance since 2009, the Yankees now head into Game 4 on Friday with a 2-1 series lead.
Following Judge and Stanton’s powerful hits in the eighth inning, the Yankees added another run in the top of the ninth, taking a 5-3 lead into the bottom of the inning.
Weaver made his seventh appearance in the Yankees’ playoff games, coming in to secure the final out of the eighth. With two outs in the ninth, he went to a 0-2 count against Lane Thomas.
New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge (99) rounds the bases after a home run during the eighth inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of the American League Championship Series at Progressive Field. Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
New York Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton (27) celebrates after hitting a home run during the eighth inning against the Cleveland Guardians in game 3 of the American League Championship Series at Progressive Field. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
Thomas fought back to a full count and doubled, leading Weaver to throw a changeup down the middle, which Noel launched for a game-tying homer.
This marked the second consecutive game in which Weaver allowed a home run after dominating for most of the previous month since taking over closing duties.
For the first time in this series, the Yankees allowed the formidable Guardians’ bullpen to enter the game with a lead. It went as expected until Judge and Stanton silenced the crowd at Progressive Field.
Giancarlo Stanton #27 of the New York Yankees celebrates a home run with Jazz Chisholm Jr. #13 during the eighth inning against the Cleveland Guardians during Game 3 of the American League Championship Series at Progressive Field on October 17, 2024, in Cleveland, Ohio. Getty Images
The Yankees began the eighth inning trailing 3-1, having managed only one hit since the second inning as left-hander Matt Boyd and two relievers effectively muted their offense.
Hunter Gaddis quickly recorded two outs before issuing a four-pitch walk to Juan Soto, prompting the Guardians to bring in Clase.
The hard-throwing right-hander started off 0-2 against Judge, who then connected with a 99 mph cutter on the outside edge in a 1-2 count that soared over the right field wall for a two-run homer, tying the game at 3-3.
Giancarlo Stanton #27 of the New York Yankees celebrates a home run with teammates during the eighth inning against the Cleveland Guardians during Game 3 of the American League Championship Series at Progressive Field on October 17, 2024, in Cleveland, Ohio. Getty Images
Stanton followed and, after falling behind 0-2, managed to foul off three pitches before smashing a 1-2 slider to right-center for a homer, giving the Yankees a 4-3 lead, prompting jubilation in the dugout.
Clase had previously allowed only two home runs and five earned runs throughout 74 ⅓ innings during a stellar regular season.
Yet, on Thursday night, he surrendered two potentially season-defining homers to Judge and Stanton in quick succession.
Jhonkensy Noel #43 of the Cleveland Guardians reacts as he scores on his two-run home run to tie the game during the 9th inning. Jason Szenes / New York Post
Anthony Volpe #11 of the New York Yankees strikes out swinging with runners on ending the 10th inning. Jason Szenes / New York Post
Up until the eighth inning, Judge had been experiencing another quiet October, with a batting average of just 2-for-15 and six walks through the first five playoff games.
However, after hitting a two-run homer for added insurance in Game 2, he delivered a crucial game-tying swing on Thursday night.
For Stanton, this home run added to his legacy of postseason brilliance, as he has now hit three homers in this playoff series.
Prior to the eighth inning, the Yankees were playing another lackluster game that seemed as though it would eventually cost them.
Jon Berti, stepping in at first base for Anthony Rizzo against the left-handed Boyd, made two defensive errors that contributed to the Guardians scoring two runs.
Additionally, Jose Trevino, making his playoff debut for the slumping Austin Wells, provided an RBI single in the second inning but was subsequently picked off first base, thwarting a rally.
Ultimate Showdown: Guardians Stun Yankees with Dramatic Walk-Off Home Run in ALCS Game 3
The Major League Baseball playoffs are always full of surprises, and in the 2023 American League Championship Series (ALCS) Game 3, the Cleveland Guardians delivered a jaw-dropping moment that will be etched in baseball history. In a thrilling contest hosted at Progressive Field, the Guardians managed to stun the New York Yankees with a dramatic walk-off home run, turning the tide of the series in an unforgettable fashion.
The Build-Up to Game 3
Following a tightly contested first two games of the ALCS, the stakes were incredibly high for both teams. The Yankees, with their powerful lineup and seasoned pitching, were looking to take a commanding lead in the series. The Guardians, however, had other plans. Here’s a quick overview of the series leading up to this pivotal match:
| Game | Location | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yankee Stadium | Yankees | 5-3 |
| 2 | Yankee Stadium | Yankees | 4-2 |
| 3 | Progressive Field | Guardians | 6-5 |
A Dramatic Game Unfolds
Game 3 was nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. The Guardians started strong, with their lineup displaying remarkable resilience against the formidable Yankees pitching. Key players stepped up, showcasing their skills and determination to shift the momentum of the series.
Key Moments of the Game
- Early Scoring: The Guardians put up 3 runs in the first inning, setting the tone for the game. A two-run blast from José Ramírez sent a clear message to the Yankees.
- Yankees’ Comeback: Not to be outdone, the Yankees rallied back, scoring 5 runs across the middle innings. Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton were particularly lethal at the plate, each contributing with crucial hits.
- Late-Game Tension: As the game entered the final innings, the Guardians found themselves trailing 5-3. However, their never-give-up attitude shone through.
The Walk-Off Home Run
In the bottom of the ninth inning, with two outs and the bases loaded, the atmosphere was electric. The Guardians’ fans held their breath as the young sensation, Steven Kwan, stepped to the plate. With the count full, Kwan made contact with a pitch that sailed into the left-field stands, sealing the game with a stunning walk-off home run.
Impact of the Walk-Off Home Run
The walk-off home run not only clinched the game for the Guardians but also shifted the momentum of the ALCS. Here are some key impacts of this dramatic moment:
- Boost in Morale: The victory invigorated the Guardians’ roster, instilling confidence as they continue the series.
- Fan Engagement: The electric atmosphere at Progressive Field showcased the passionate support from Guardians fans, enhancing the home-field advantage.
- Strategic Implications: The Yankees were forced to reevaluate their pitching strategy going forward in the series, leading to potential shifts in their roster decisions.
Players React to the Moment
The emotions ran high after the game, with players from both teams sharing their thoughts on the pivotal moment:
Guardians’ Reaction
- Steven Kwan: “I just wanted to make contact. The moment felt surreal, especially hearing the crowd roar.”
- José Ramírez: “This win is for our fans. They kept us going throughout the game.”
Yankees’ Reaction
- Aaron Judge: “It’s tough to lose like that, but we need to regroup and focus on the next game.”
- Gerrit Cole: “We played hard, and unfortunately, it didn’t go our way. We’ll bounce back.”
The ALCS Series Outlook
With Game 3 wrapped up, the Guardians have tied the series at 2-1, creating a buzz around the potential for a dramatic comeback. The Yankees, known for their resilience in high-pressure situations, will need to adapt and respond effectively in the upcoming games. Key factors moving forward include:
- Pitching Adjustments: The Yankees must consider their pitching rotation, potentially bringing in their ace to regain control.
- Offensive Strategy: The Yankees need to find a way to effectively counter the Guardians’ pitching and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
- Guardians’ Confidence: The Guardians will ride the wave of momentum from their thrilling win, looking to capitalize on their newfound confidence.
What This Game Means for Baseball Fans
This dramatic walk-off home run is more than just a moment in a single game; it symbolizes the unpredictability and thrill of baseball. Fans across the league are reminded of why they love the sport:
Benefits of Watching MLB Playoffs
- Unpredictability: Every game can change the course of a series, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
- Community Engagement: Playoff games bring fans together, creating vibrant atmospheres both in stadiums and homes.
- Showcasing Talent: Young stars like Steven Kwan shine on the big stage, providing fans with new heroes to root for.
Case Study: Walk-Off Moments in Playoff History
Walk-off moments have become iconic in baseball history. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most memorable walk-off home runs in MLB playoffs:
| Player | Year | Team | Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bucky Dent | 1978 | Yankees | AL East Playoff |
| Joe Carter | 1993 | Blue Jays | World Series |
| David Ortiz | 2004 | Red Sox | ALCS |
| Steven Kwan | 2023 | Guardians | ALCS |
First-Hand Experience: Watching the Game
As a lifelong baseball fan, watching Game 3 was an experience I will never forget. The tension in the stadium was palpable, and every pitch felt like a battle. When Steven Kwan hit that walk-off, it was as if time stood still. Fans erupted into cheers, and the sense of unity among Guardians fans was overwhelming. This moment exemplified the true spirit of baseball and the magic of playoff season.
