Yankees' Fifth-Inning Errors Cost World Series

In a disastrous Game 5, the New York Yankees squandered a five-run lead against the Los Angeles Dodgers, ultimately losing 7-6 and failing to clinch the 2024 World Series. Key errors, including a miscommunication between ace Gerrit Cole and first baseman Anthony Rizzo, allowed the Dodgers to score five unearned runs in a catastrophic fifth inning. Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge also contributed to the chaos with a rare missed catch, marking his first error of the season. The Yankees' defense was riddled with mistakes, making them the only MLB team to blow a 5+ run lead and allow 5+ unearned runs, among other blunders, in the same game since the statistic became official in 1913. Mookie Betts' consistent defensive efforts throughout the series highlighted the Yankees' lack of execution, as they failed to capitalize on opportunities while the Dodgers seized theirs. Ultimately, the Yankees' performance was a glaring example of fundamental issues that plagued them throughout the series, leading to their defeat.