Yankees Highlights: Gary Sanchez hits two home runs, James Paxton leaves with injury

The Yankees entered Friday night’s game winless against teams with records over .500. That changed quickly, as the Bombers picked up a 6-3 victory over the Twins. It wasn’t a crisp game by any means, but it still counts as a win.

Winner of the Game

Gary Sanchez continues to build his case as the best hitting catcher in the American League. The Kraken crushed a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth inning. It traveled 428 feet, with an exit velocity of 111.7 mph.

He hit another solo bomb in the seventh inning, this one with a 118 mph exit velocity. A healthy Sanchez terrorizing major league pitching has been a joy for the 2019 season. It’s great to see him rake again.

Tyler Wade also wins for his reaction to the first moonshot.

Honorable Mention: The Yankees bullpen (save for Zack Britton)

Loser of the Game

Slugger, masher, large adult son — there are many ways to describe Luke Voit. Speed demon, however, is not a title he should wear. The Yankees first baseman extended his on-base streak in the first inning by drawing a walk, which is good! He got thrown out at home after an ill-advised send by third base coach Phil Nevin, which was deflating.

To make matters worse, Voit ran into another out in the second inning. This time he hit an RBI infield single, but tried to take advantage of the Twins defense and advance to second. It didn’t work, and he ended the inning on the basepaths. It’s okay if Voit doesn’t have a great running game, though. He more than makes up for it in other areas.

Honorable Mention: James Paxton’s left knee, home plate umpire Rob Drake

Chart