On April 29, 2025, the New York Yankees etched their names into the annals of Major League Baseball history by achieving a feat never before accomplished: opening a game with three consecutive home runs for the second time in a single season. Facing the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards, the Yankees’ bats came alive from the very first pitch, setting the tone for a commanding 15–3 victory.

A Historic Start

The game commenced with an electrifying display of power. Trent Grisham led off with a 412-foot blast to center field, followed by Aaron Judge and Ben Rice, who each sent the ball soaring over the fence. This trio of back-to-back-to-back home runs marked the second time this season the Yankees achieved such a start, the first being on March 29 against the Milwaukee Brewers. According to MLB records, no other team in history has begun a game with three consecutive homers more than once in a season.

Cody Bellinger added to the onslaught with a fourth homer in the first inning, making it four home runs within the first five batters. This explosive beginning left Orioles starter Kyle Gibson reeling, as he surrendered five runs before recording an out.

Offensive Onslaught

The Yankees’ offense didn’t relent after the first inning. Ben Rice, showcasing his emerging talent, homered again in the second inning, contributing to his impressive stat line of three hits, four runs scored, and multiple RBIs. Aaron Judge continued his stellar season, going 3-for-5 with a home run, raising his batting average to .412 and his OPS to 1.235.

The team amassed a total of 19 hits, with contributions from up and down the lineup. Austin Wells capped the scoring with a ninth-inning homer, further cementing the Yankees’ dominance in the game.

Pitching Prowess

While the offense grabbed headlines, starting pitcher Carlos Rodón delivered a masterful performance on the mound. He carried a perfect game into the sixth inning, ultimately allowing just two hits and one walk over six-plus innings, striking out seven batters. This outing improved his season record to 4–3 and lowered his ERA to 3.43.

Rodón’s dominance provided the Yankees with stability, ensuring that the early offensive explosion translated into a comfortable win. Reliever Ian Hamilton followed with a solid performance, maintaining the team’s momentum and securing the victory.

Orioles’ Struggles

For the Orioles, the game was a challenging one. Kyle Gibson, making his first major league appearance of the season, struggled significantly, giving up nine runs on 11 hits in just 3⅔ innings. The bullpen couldn’t stem the tide, and the offense was largely stifled by Rodón’s pitching.

Gunnar Henderson provided a bright spot for Baltimore, hitting a solo home run to avoid the shutout. Dylan Carlson also contributed with an RBI, but the team’s efforts fell short against the Yankees’ overwhelming performance.

Looking Ahead

This victory not only secured a series-tying win for the Yankees but also reinforced their status as a formidable force in the league. Their ability to combine explosive offense with strong pitching makes them a team to watch as the season progresses.

The series concludes with a decisive game, where both teams will vie for the series win. For the Yankees, maintaining this level of performance could set the tone for continued success, while the Orioles will look to regroup and respond.

As the Yankees continue to make history, their fans have much to celebrate, and the rest of the league has been put on notice.