Aaron Hicks, in desperate need of a big hit during what has been a disastrous start to the season, finally broke through with his first home run of the season in a much-needed win over the lowly A’s on Monday night.
With the Yanks leading 5-2 in the bottom of the seventh, Hicks blasted a no-doubt two-run home run to break the game open to give the Bombers some valuable breathing room, while letting the struggling Hicks have an opportunity to breathe himself.
“It felt amazing, to be able to get me one and get on the board, it feels good,” Hicks said. “Any time you can extend a lead, it’s always helpful. It felt good to hit one in that situation. It feels good.
“You definitely want to get the first one out of the way, that’s for sure. To do it at home feels good as well.”
It was a rare moment where Hicks heard cheers in his home park rather than boos, as Hicks is still batting just .153 at the bottom of a Yankee order that has struggled to score runs. But on Monday, all was well, as Hicks was one of four Yankees to go deep.
“We’re the Bronx Bombers,” Hicks said. “That’s kind of what we’re known for, to hit home runs and score runs that way. It feels good to be back home.”
Could Monday’s blast be Hicks’ last as a Yankee? With Aaron Judge set to be activated off the IL on Tuesday, a corresponding move will have to be made, and many wonder whether the struggling Hicks could be a DFA candidate. If it is the end, Hicks went out on a high note, homering on Monday after doubling on Sunday, his slowed-down approach at the plate seemingly paying off.
“I’m just trying to be a little bit more patient, try to not force things,” Hicks said. “Just kind of let things happen, stay within the strike zone, and when I get a good pitch to hit, try and hit it hard.”
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
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