Gerrit Cole Falters as Max Muncy’s Blast Secures Dodgers Win

Gerrit Cole gave up a game-changing two-run homer to Max Muncy on July 17, 2026, handing the Los Angeles Dodgers a 2-1 win at Yankee Stadium and ending a tight pitchers’ duel.

What happened?

Cole entered the game in the seventh inning after a solid six-inning effort, having thrown 96 pitches and allowed just one run. He faced left-handed batters Max Muncy and Kyle Tucker. On the first pitch to Muncy, a 2-2 slider, the Dodgers slugger drove the ball 416 feet into the second deck, scoring two runs and putting the Dodgers ahead.

Why it matters for Gerrit Cole

The decision to keep Cole in the game came from Yankees manager Aaron Boone, who later admitted the move was a mistake. Boone said he felt Cole was “competitive” and had “enough to get Max,” yet the left-handed reliever left-handed specialist Brent Headrick was available. The misstep highlights the fine line managers walk between trusting an ace and protecting a lead.

How the duel unfolded

Cole’s teammate Roki Sasaki matched him on the mound, delivering a blazing performance that included back-to-back fastballs at 101.7 mph and 101.8 mph. Sasaki struck out Paul Goldschmidt in the first inning and averaged 100.1 mph on 41 four-seam fastballs. Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing praised Sasaki’s velocity, noting the pitcher looked “like an animal” on the mound.

What comes next?

The loss drops the Yankees to a 0-1 deficit in the series, while the Dodgers gain momentum heading into the second half of the season. Cole will likely return to the rotation with a short-term bounce-back plan, and Boone faces scrutiny over his bullpen management. The Yankees must decide whether to rely on their ace in high-leverage spots or lean on specialized relievers moving forward.