Michael Pineda (1-3, 5.73 ERA) looks to make it back to back series’ wins against Yordano Ventura (2-2, 4.65 ERA) and the Royals in game three. Pineda allowed just two runs on eight hits through six innings and 106 pitches against the Sox. Those two runs came from a David Ortiz homer, and he left with the no decision. Batters are hitting .307 off him this season and hold a .946 OPS. However, KC hasn’t fared too well against him. He is 3-3 with a 2.52 ERA, and an even smaller 0.66 ERA in Yankee Stadium in his career against them. Alex Gordon has struggled the most, going 3-18 (.167) with 5 K’s against Big Mike.
Ventura has allowed 11 walks in his last two starts, lasting just four innings and giving up five runs in each. Manager Ned Yost thinks it is a mechanical issue.
“He’s just kind of flying open with his front side. It’s nothing major, but it’s affecting his command.”
This will be just his second career start against the Yanks. Back in 2014, he allowed three hits across six scoreless inning in a 2-0 win.
Tidbits:
Pineda hasn’t won since his first start back on April 6.
Carlos Beltran is two homers away from 400.
Salvador Perez is 5-15 (.333) with a double against Pineda in his career.
7:05 pm on YES and ESPN.
