The New York Yankees face elimination after dropping the first two games of the American League Division Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. With the series shifting to Yankee Stadium for Game 3, Yankees manager Aaron Boone indicated possible changes to the lineup.
Potential Lineup Changes for Game 3
The Yankees will be looking to shift momentum with right-hander Shane Bieber starting for the Blue Jays. Boone referenced Bieber’s performance, noting that right-handed hitters have significantly outperformed left-handed hitters against him this season. Righties have a batting average of .297 against Bieber, while lefties are struggling with just .156.
Key Player Considerations
One suggested change is replacing Ben Rice with Paul Goldschmidt at first base. Goldschmidt, a right-handed hitter with a solid track record against Bieber, has a career batting average of .500 in six at-bats against the 2020 Cy Young Award winner. In contrast, Rice, a second-year player, has no experience against Bieber.
This could be an important game for Goldschmidt. He has one year remaining on his contract with the Yankees, and Game 3 may mark his last appearance in a Yankees uniform as free agency approaches. Goldschmidt expressed his focus on the current season, stating, “I’m focused on this year… just trying to help us win.”
Performance Insights
- Goldschmidt has only started one of the Yankees’ five playoff games.
- He batted .274 with 10 home runs in the regular season.
- Rice had been starting due to his impressive performance, but Boone is weighing options based on matchups.
Additionally, Boone may consider adjustments at third base. Left-handed hitter Ryan McMahon has had three starts but could be replaced by right-handed batters Amed Rosario or Jose Caballero. While McMahon has shown defensive prowess, his batting average in the postseason has been less than favorable.
Recent Performances By Both Teams
The Yankees have struggled against strong pitching performances from the Blue Jays. In Game 1, Kevin Gausman held New York to one run across 5 ⅔ innings, leading to a decisive 10-1 victory. In Game 2, Trey Yesavage excelled even further, contributing to a 13-7 win with 11 strikeouts and 5 ⅓ no-hit innings.
As the Yankees look to avoid elimination, Boone’s lineup decisions will be critical. With right-handed hitters having the edge against Bieber, Goldschmidt’s potential return to the lineup may provide the spark the Yankees need.
