Video summary
In a dramatic tenth inning against the Angels, Austin stepped up to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs, demonstrating resilience by grinding through the at-bat to get a ball in play. His effort was crucial as it helped his teammates drive in runs that ultimately secured the victory for the staff he was supporting. This high-pressure situation highlighted the importance of clutch hitting when the game is on the line, proving that maintaining focus and trying to keep the defense alive can be the difference between winning and losing.
The offensive surge continued throughout the inning as players behind Austin also delivered excellent at-bats, effectively keeping the momentum rolling for the team. This collective performance allowed the pitching staff, specifically Blackburn, to stay in the game longer than anticipated by preventing the Angels from scoring further. The synergy between the batters created a perfect environment where one hit could open the floodgates, leading to a successful inning that capped off a strong defensive and offensive effort.
Although Austin did not start the game, his late entry into the lineup was vital in helping the team close out the contest against all odds. He emphasized that in baseball, anything can happen at any moment, so preparation is key regardless of whether a player starts or comes in later. His readiness to step up when given the opportunity showcased his dedication to contributing to the team's success in any way possible, turning a potential late-game deficit into a triumphant finish.
The victory was significantly bolstered by an exceptional performance from Cam Skittle, who made his 19th start of the season while allowing one or fewer earned runs, a feat that stands as the most in franchise history for the Yankees. Austin expressed deep admiration for Skittle's consistency and ability to dominate on the mound every five or six days, noting how amazing it has been to watch him throughout the year. Catching Skittle has provided some of the most enjoyable times behind the plate, underscoring the strong partnership between catcher and pitcher that was instrumental in securing this win.
Read the full video transcript
Austin, you stepped to the plate there
in the 10th with the bases loaded and
two outs and battled. How were you able
to stay alive to find something you
could hit in that at bat?
>> Uh I mean, just grinding, trying to get
a ball in play there. Um you know,
trying to get a run in for our staff to
come in and close it out there. Um
yeah, it was one of the goal.
>> The offense continued to tack on some
runs in that 10th. What do you think
allowed the offense to keep it rolling
there and add some tack on runs?
>> Yeah, I feel like with us sometimes it
just takes one to open the gate, so um
guys behind me had great at bats, guys
in front of me had great at bats, so
um you know, great inning there for us
and allowed us to keep uh you know,
Blackburn out of the game there, so it
was great.
>> Hey, you didn't start this one, but you
certainly helped finish it. What goes
into your preparation on a night like
this when you're not behind the plate to
start, but you know you may come in
late?
>> Yeah, I mean, it's baseball, anything
could happen, so I'm ready for any
situation.
Um
you know, luckily got opportunity to
come in and and get to a bat, so uh help
the team in any way I can and just be
ready for it.
>> Two for two with two RBIs. Hey, how
about Cam Skittle tonight? It was his
19th start allowing one earned run or
fewer. That is the most in Yankee's
franchise history. Not only tonight, but
just how do you wrap your head around
what he's been doing all season long?
>> Yeah, I mean, he's been incredible for
us. I mean, being able to go out there,
you know, every five, six days, do what
he's been doing, take the ball, give us
six, seven, eight innings, um you know,
it's been amazing and watching him all
year, getting to catch him, uh it's
been, you know, some of the most fun
times behind the plate, so he's been
incredible for us.