Ali Sanchez Hits First Home Run with Yankees
CHICAGO — On Monday evening, Ali Sanchez made a memorable return to his hometown of Corolla, Venezuela, as he rounded the bases at Leto Field.
After imagining this moment “many times,” it finally happened in the 75th game of his fifth major league season. Yes, it was his first home run.
“This is a kid from Venezuela living a dream, just running the bases,” Sanchez reflected after driving in three runs during the Yankees’ 9-5 victory over the White Sox. “I always dreamed of playing in the big leagues, and to hit my first home run in a Yankees uniform and help the team win is truly special.”
At 29, Sanchez, who began his career with the Mets in 2020, picked the perfect moment for his long ball. With two outs in the eighth inning and the Yankees looking to extend their 5-4 lead, he swung at a full-count inside fastball from lefty Sean Newcomb that sailed over the left field wall.
“He did a great job behind the plate and learned a lot about the staff,” Max Fried commented. “I was really happy for him. It took a while, but he deserved this celebration.”
After the game, the Yankees managed to retrieve the ball for Sanchez, who took pictures with the fan who caught it and signed several other balls. Planning ahead, he intends to send the ball home to his parents in Venezuela.
In the limited chances he’s had, Sanchez has been showing off a .333 batting average and an OPS of .876 in 28 at-bats this season against left-handed pitchers. Recently, he and Austin Wells have formed a solid platoon, making a notable impact together.
“It’s really great,” manager Aaron Boone said. “Everyone’s journey is different, and there are so many inspiring stories, and Ali’s is one of them.”
Meanwhile, regarding Giancarlo Stanton’s recovery from a second right calf strain, the timeline remains uncertain. Boone mentioned Stanton is making “running progress,” but he hasn’t started base running yet, following an injury back in June.
“The strength and explosiveness in the weight room have been impressive,” Boone said Monday. “We just need to get him to a point where he can compete, especially in running.”
When asked if Stanton might need another MRI, Boone said there were “no plans” for one right now.
On a related note, Trent Grisham took the night off amidst a slump, managing just 2-for-36 at-bats. He returned as a defensive replacement in the seventh, with Boone noting that he had been hitting the ball hard but not getting the results.
“We’re just getting through it little by little right now,” Boone added.
In other news, Carlos Rodon (left elbow inflammation) is set to face a batter for the first time in simulated action on Wednesday, while Clark Schmidt, recovering from Tommy John surgery, is expected to pitch his third live session on Friday.
Lastly, the Cubs designated Jameson Taillon for assignment on Monday, meaning the Yankees won’t see their former teammate at Wrigley Field this weekend.
