The New York Yankees are off to a historic start, mirroring a feat not seen since 1943: allowing only three runs through their first five games of the 2026 season. Despite this impressive pitching, they managed to lose one game, scoring just one run.

Max Fried's Dominant Performance

Leading the charge for the Yankees has been left-handed starter Max Fried. Following a 6.1-inning scoreless outing on Opening Day, Fried delivered seven more scoreless innings against the Mariners on Tuesday, striking out six batters while walking only one. This performance fueled a 5-0 Yankees victory, their third shutout of the season.

Looking Ahead: Fried & Cole

The Yankees rotation is poised to become even more formidable when Fried pairs with ace Gerrit Cole, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery. Once Cole returns, New York will boast a powerful one-two punch at the top of their rotation.

Ohtani Continues Historic Streak

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani made his regular-season pitching debut on Tuesday, delivering six shutout innings against the Guardians, allowing just one hit and striking out six. The Dodgers won the game 4-1.

Unbroken Run of Success

Ohtani hasn't allowed a run in the regular season since August 27, 2025, against the Reds. He has now extended his scoreless streak to 22.2 innings, a career best, while simultaneously maintaining a 36-game hitting streak, going 1-for-3 with a single and two walks on Tuesday.

Umpire Under Fire: C.B. Bucknor

Longtime umpire C.B. Bucknor is facing scrutiny early in the season due to a high number of challenged and overturned calls. Eight pitches have been challenged on Bucknor’s calls, with six being overturned, even while serving as a first base official.

Controversial Call in Brewers-Rays Game

A particularly egregious call during the Brewers-Rays game drew widespread criticism, with players and announcers openly questioning the accuracy of Bucknor’s judgment. The automated ball-strike challenge system highlighted the difficulty of umpiring, but Bucknor’s frequent overturned calls have become a point of contention.

Phillies' Prospect Debuts

Phillies prospect Andrew Painter made his highly anticipated big-league debut against the Nationals, pitching 5.1 innings of one-run ball with eight strikeouts. Designated hitter Kyle Schwarber and free-agent signing Aroldis Garcia also homered in the Phillies’ game.

Alonso's First Homer for Orioles

Pete Alonso hit his first home run as a member of the Baltimore Orioles against his former teammate, Jacob deGrom, of the Texas Rangers. Despite Alonso’s homer, the Rangers ultimately won the game.

Other Notable Performances

  • Willy Adames (Giants): Recorded four hits in five at-bats, scoring twice and driving in two runs.
  • Jose Fernandez (Diamondbacks): Hit two home runs in his major league debut, including the game-winner.
  • Shea Langeliers (Athletics): Hit his fourth home run of the season, giving the Athletics an insurance run.