Giancarlo Stanton Blasts Yankees to 2-1 Lead Over Dodgers

New York Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton hit a two-run home run, leading the Yankees to a 2-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers in their highly anticipated matchup at Dodger Stadium.

With one swing in the bottom of the fourth inning, Stanton sent a 94 mph fastball from Dodgers starter Julio Urias deep into the left-field seats. The blast gave the Yankees their first lead of the game and energized the Yankee Stadium crowd.

Stanton's homer was a key moment in a game that was dominated by pitching. Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw and Yankees starter Gerrit Cole matched zeroes through the first three innings, each striking out four batters and allowing only one baserunner.

The stalemate was broken in the top of the fourth when Dodgers shortstop Trea Turner led off with a solo home run off Cole. The Yankees answered back in the bottom of the inning with Stanton's homer, and the score remained 2-1 for the rest of the game.

The Yankees' bullpen was outstanding after Cole's departure, with relievers Jonathan Loaisiga, Clay Holmes, and Aroldis Chapman combining to allow only one hit over the final 4 1/3 innings.

The victory gives the Yankees a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series, which continues with Game 2 on Wednesday night in New York. Stanton's home run was a reminder of his power and ability to change the game with one swing.