Even in defeat Masahiro Tanaka showed why he is the ultimate winner. After suffering his first loss since Aug. 19, 2012 -- a 6-1 setback Tuesday night to the Cubs in Chicago, the Yankees right-hander maintained his usual poise and professionalism.
Tanaka could have blamed his poor performance on the steady rain. He could have blamed his teammates' inability to produce runs as placing undo pressure on him. But that isn't Tanaka's style: He just didn't have it and the Cubs took advantage. That's it. No excuses.
He started 41 games in a row without a loss, compiling a record of 34-0 during that span. The run is now over. And Tanaka couldn't care less.
After allowing a career-high four runs [three earned] in six innings to a Cubs squad that boasts a .237 team batting average, Tanaka has moved on. He is looking to his next outing for a victory.
"Obviously, I'm disappointed," said Tanaka, who lost for the first time in the majors to fall to 6-1. "I'm looking forward to my next start and making my adjustments and try to be my best next time."
Tanaka's ERA splits to a very respectful 2.39 from 2.17.
"I'm disappointed because a lot of fans were looking for me to keep winning," Tanaka said. "Next time out, I will try to get the streak going again."
Cubs right-hander Jason Hammel went 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run on four hits. He improved to 5-2, while extending the Cubs' win streak to three.
Information from ESPN.com was used in this report.
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