Rodon was making only his third start of the season after missing the first half of the year due to a forearm strain he suffered during spring training and a back issue he encountered during his recovery. He was a major offseason acquisition for the Yankees after signing a 6-year, $162 million contract. Rodon lost his prior two starts and did not start off well Wednesday night, giving up 2-run homers in the first and second inning to put the Yankees in a 4-0 hole.
As he headed towards the dugout, he was clearly hearing the frustration of the Yankee fans, leading him to react sarcastically by blowing a kiss.
Rodon reacts to some Yankees fans in attendance pic.twitter.com/oE86bvyTq1
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) July 19, 2023
We know many players that do not like to be heckled, but usually they are hearing it from the opposing fans. It has to sting to hear the taunting from your home fans. This was a calmer reaction Rodon than we have seen in the past, as he once injured a teammate after kicking a bat to express his frustration. However, fans in the Bronx will not be happy to see this.
Rodon gave up another two runs in the third inning and was then taken out in the fifth. Overall, he gave up 6 runs on only 4 hits with 5 walks, putting the Yankees in position to lose their fourth straight game given their hapless offense. This will force the Yankees to make up more ground as they try to claw their way out of last place in the American League East.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
