In a tense Game One of the Wild Card Series, the New York Yankees faced a 3-1 defeat to the Boston Red Sox. Despite criticisms, Yankees Manager Aaron Boone’s decision not to pinch-run for Paul Goldschmidt in the bottom of the ninth inning has been defended as sensible.
Game Highlights and Key Plays
Entering the final inning down by two runs, the Yankees found themselves in a promising position. Goldschmidt stepped up as the leadoff hitter and executed a single into right field, effectively igniting hopes for a comeback. Following Goldschmidt, superstar Aaron Judge recorded another single, putting him in place as the tying run with no outs.
Cody Bellinger added to the excitement by blooping a single into left field, which loaded the bases without an out. With this situation unfolding, it seemed the Yankees had a golden opportunity to rally.
Goldschmidt’s Sprint Speed Consideration
- Paul Goldschmidt recorded a sprint speed in the 21st percentile this season, at 26.1 feet per second.
- Despite the loaded bases, Goldschmidt did not score on Bellinger’s hit, which was an understandable outcome given the uncertainties of the play.
However, the situation grew critical following a fly ball hit by Jazz Chisholm Jr. to right field. Even after reaching second base, Goldschmidt did not attempt to score. Although his run wouldn’t have changed the game’s outcome, some fans argued it could have applied additional pressure on Boston’s Aroldis Chapman.
Boone’s Decision Under Scrutiny
While some of Boone’s choices faced scrutiny—such as leaving out key left-handed batters against Boston’s ace, Garrett Crochet—his choice regarding Goldschmidt in the ninth inning was arguably justified. Critics noted that bringing in Jasson Domínguez to run would not have significantly altered the game’s dynamics. Risking an out for a run that had no impact on the overall score was deemed unnecessary.
The Yankees now face elimination as they head into Game Two. Boone’s decisions will continue to be a focal point for fans and analysts alike as they assess the team’s strategy.
