The New York Yankees were swept by the Cincinnati Reds in a surprising three-game series at Yankee Stadium, culminating in an 8-4 loss. The Yankees, who hold a better overall record, struggled due to underperformance from key players like Anthony Volpe and Luis Gil. Additionally, the series was marked by a unique national anthem standoff between players from both teams before the final game, which the Reds used as a morale boost. Reds player Graham Ashcraft emerged victorious in the standoff, which some players felt set the tone for their win. Yankees manager Aaron Boone had to adjust the lineup due to player struggles, demonstrating the team's broader issues. The Yankees' position in the AL East has weakened, further complicating their season as they have now lost 14 of their last 19 games.