SAN FRANCISCO - Opening Day jitters seemed to hit Aaron Judge hard, with an 0-for-7 start and a golden sombrero. But anyone hitting the panic button on Judge's season might want to pump the brakes. After all, this is the reigning back-to-back MVP we're talking about.
Judge silenced the skeptics in style, launching a 109.1-mph, 405-foot two-run homer in the Yankees’ 3-0 victory over the Giants. It was a classic Judge moment, reminding everyone why he's one of the most feared hitters in the game.
In the sixth inning, after successfully challenging a low strike, Judge sent a Robbie Ray pitch soaring to left field. The ball stayed fair, and the Yankees bench erupted, with Amed Rosario leading the cheers. This marked the Yankees' first homer and runs of the season.
And the fireworks didn’t stop there. Giancarlo Stanton followed suit, crushing a solo shot off reliever José Buttó.
His homer traveled 414 feet at 108 mph, proving the Yankees' power lineup is in full swing. With this dynamic duo homering, the Yankees boast an impressive 53-7 record when both go deep in the same game.
Cam Schlittler also played a pivotal role on the mound. Limited to 68 pitches due to a spring training injury, Schlittler was efficient, starting the game with 10 consecutive strikes in a perfect first inning. His performance included eight strikeouts over 5.1 scoreless innings, allowing just one hit-a double by Heliot Ramos-and no walks.
Schlittler's fastball was electric, averaging 98.5 mph and peaking at 100.1 mph. His short but dominant outing set the stage for a bullpen that kept the Giants hitless, with Fernando Cruz, Tim Hill, Camilo Doval, and David Bednar sealing the shutout. This marks the first time in Yankees history they've opened a season with back-to-back shutouts.
With the series already in hand, the Yankees aim for a sweep at Oracle Park on Saturday. Will Warren, honoring his late cousin with a new number 29, will take the mound.
The Giants, still seeking their first win, will counter with Tyler Mahle. If the Yankees continue this level of play, they’re setting a formidable pace early in the season.