“Great for Tommy”: Another substitution effort earns Kahnle a save in Game 4

Tommy Kahnle earned his first postseason save since 2017 by closing out Game 4 of the ALCS, helping the Yankees beat the Guardians 8-6 and take a 3-1 series lead. Notably, Kahnle pitched all 18 of his pitches as changeups, extending his three-game winning streak to 48 consecutive changeups. This transformation from a hard pitcher to a changeup specialist highlights Kahnle's focus and strategic pitching approach as he adapts to a new style while still delivering crucial outs for the Yankees. Manager Aaron Boone's confidence in Kahnle was evident when he selected him instead of Luke Weaver to finish the game, cementing their strong pitcher-manager relationship.

Through the numbers

• Kahnle has made 48 consecutive substitutions over the last three games.
• This was Kahnle's first postseason save since 2017.

state of affairs

• The Yankees are one win away from their first World Series appearance since 2009.
• With Kahnle fresh after not using Weaver, the Yankees can manage their bullpen better going forward.

What's next?

As the Yankees approach Game 5, Kahnle's recent success could lead to him becoming a key player again if the game situation arises. Boone's unconventional options could include using Kahnle again, especially if he needs outs at crucial moments given the high stakes of the series.

Conclusion

Kahnle's confidence and strategic adjustments made him an invaluable asset to the Yankees on their road to the World Series. His effectiveness in transitions highlights the importance of adaptability in a player's career, which can inspire a broader team strategy in high-pressure situations.