MINNEAPOLIS — George Lombard Jr. experienced his first champagne celebration as a Major League Baseball player on Monday night. The rookie shortstop played a significant role in the Yankees' 8-3 victory over the Twins, contributing to a six-run eighth inning that secured the win.
Lombard initiated the rally with a double off the wall in left-center field and later scored on José Caballero’s single that tied the game at 2-2 before the Yankees took the lead. "It was really cool," Lombard said. "Obviously, a big part of the game and doing whatever I can to get on base there."
At 21 years old, Lombard has adjusted well since making his MLB debut in early August, despite some defensive challenges that have been part of his game in the minors. He encountered another defensive issue in the ninth inning on Monday, stepping off second base too early while trying to catch a throw from second baseman Anthony Volpe.
Lombard's maturity has impressed the Yankees, which may benefit him as he prepares for his first postseason experience. "Obviously, it’s intense and every single pitch counts and everything matters, but we’re prepared for it," Lombard said. "It’s going to be the same preparation, same routine. We just got to go out there and do our thing."
Clarke Schmidt is expected to be activated off the injured list on Wednesday after completing his recovery from Tommy John surgery, although manager Aaron Boone indicated that Tuesday could also be a possibility. Schmidt was not available to pitch on Monday due to needing more than one day of rest, which he did not have during his rehab assignment.
Ryan Weathers, recovering from a left forearm flexor strain, was scheduled to throw his first bullpen session on Tuesday at Target Field as he aims to return from the injured list before the end of the regular season.
Carlos Rodón has been nominated by the Yankees for the Roberto Clemente Award, which honors the player who best represents baseball through character, community involvement, and philanthropy. Rodón and his wife, Ashley, actively support couples facing infertility and pregnancy loss through their foundation. Boone praised their efforts, stating, "What him and Ashley do, we talk about using your platform for good, and they certainly have done that. They’ve taken some of their personal experiences and hardships and turned them into positives, in and around the country and the world. You love when you see your guys give back whether it’s financially, whether it’s their time, whether it’s their talent, whatever it may be. But certainly the Rodóns have done a remarkable job in the philanthropic job. Proud of them."
Fernando Cruz, who has a partially torn UCL, started playing catch over the weekend, keeping alive the possibility of him pitching again this season.