Yankees’ Johnson aggravates Tigers
Randy Johnson was dominant on the mound, and defiant off it.
Johnson didn’t give up a hit for 5 2/3 innings and combined with two relievers for a two-hitter, leading the New York Yankees over the Detroit Tigers 4-0 on Monday.
The 42-year-old Johnson, who had given up at least four runs in five of his previous six outings, allowed just two hits and three walks while striking out four over six-plus innings.
“One good game doesn’t make a whole year,” Johnson bristled. “But five or six bad games for me doesn’t make a year, either. It doesn’t mean I’m done.”
Ivan Rodriguez broke up Johnson’s bid for his third no-hitter — and second against the Tigers — with a single to right.
“I couldn’t have cared less,” Johnson said. “If I had a perfect game, I would’ve come out after seven innings.”
After ending the sixth by striking out Magglio Ordonez, Johnson (7-4) pumped his left hand as he walked off the mound after his first strong outing in more than a month.
Johnny Damon and Derek Jeter drove in runs in the third. Alex Rodriguez and Jorge Posada had RBIs in the fifth.
Jeremy Bonderman (5-4) gave up four runs and eight hits in 7 1/3 innings.
