Yankees rookie George Lombard Jr. hits home run in MLB debut

George Lombard Jr. recorded a home run in his major-league debut on Tuesday, putting the New York Yankees ahead 2-0 against the St. Louis Cardinals, a lead that proved decisive in the final 2-0 result. The fifth-inning blast traveled 392 feet with an exit velocity of 100.2 mph off a 0-2 pitch from Cardinals starter Hunter Dobbins. Lombard, 21, finished the game 1-for-2 with a walk and was celebrated by teammates after rounding the bases.

The home run landed in the left-field stands, where fan Bruce Roberts, who had purchased a Yankees cap ten minutes earlier, retrieved the ball from inside the hat. Roberts, an Army veteran from Utah attending the game with his family for his son’s birthday, later exchanged the ball for signed memorabilia and a brief meeting with Lombard.

Lombard said the moment was one he would not forget and expressed optimism about his future with the Yankees, a club that recently demoted former prospect Anthony Volpe to Triple-A. Manager Aaron Boone noted the team hopes Lombard can provide a spark as they compete for the American League East title.

Lombard’s brother, Jacob, also homered in his professional debut for a Low-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins. The family plans to return home later in the week after touring New York attractions.