TAMPA, Fla. - The Yankees’ first spring training home game of the year was memorable, and not just because of their explosive performance on the field against the Detroit Tigers.
Saturday at Steinbrenner Field turned into an unexpected challenge when a sewage leak disrupted the home clubhouse. As the Yankees cruised to a 20-3 victory, the clubhouse faced an unwelcome intruder-sewage water that seeped into the restroom and parts of the carpeted area.
“It’s not great,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone remarked post-game. “It’s all over the place … seeping into other areas.” Boone’s candor highlighted the unusual off-field obstacle the team had to navigate.
Outside the ballpark, the situation was no less challenging. Makeshift fences surrounded a puddle of sewage water on a warm 80-degree day, forcing fans to find alternate routes into the stadium. The odor, unfortunately, became part of the day's atmosphere both inside and out.
With the clubhouse restroom soaked, team captain Aaron Judge conducted his post-game interview outside, fresh off his impressive two-homer spring debut. Joining him were starting pitcher Carlos Lagrange and center fielder Spencer Jones, who also spoke with the media outside the clubhouse.
The Yankees’ staff faces a tight deadline to address the leak, as they are set to host the Mets the following afternoon. “Hopefully, we’ll get it cleaned up overnight and we’ll be back in business,” Boone said with optimism.
“Life gets you sometimes. We’ll get through it.”
On the diamond, the Yankees were unstoppable, racking up 20 runs on 18 hits. The eighth inning was particularly explosive, featuring a bases-loaded walk, a grand slam by Roderick Arias, and a three-run homer by Jackson Castillo. The Tigers, meanwhile, struggled to contain the Yankees' relentless offense.
In a game that tested both plumbing and pitching, the Yankees showed resilience and readiness for the season ahead.