Jazz Chisholm Jr. Rejoins Yankees Lineup for Pivotal Game 2 Against Red Sox
The Yankees adjust their batting order, featuring a left-handed heavy lineup to counter Red Sox right-hander Sonny Gray, as they aim to sweep the AL wild-card series.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. is back in the starting lineup for the New York Yankees as they face the Boston Red Sox in Game 2 of the American League wild-card series. Chisholm was held out of Game 1, a 9-0 victory for the Yankees, in favor of Anthony Volpe against Red Sox left-handed pitcher Payton Tolle.
For Game 2, manager Aaron Boone has opted for a lineup heavily weighted with left-handed hitters against Red Sox right-hander Sonny Gray. Chisholm will play second base. This strategic shift aims to capitalize on matchups against Gray and anticipate the Red Sox's bullpen, which features several right-handed pitchers.
In addition to Chisholm's return, Trent Grisham is starting in center field, batting seventh. This move shifts rookie Spencer Jones to right field. Grisham had been on the injured list for three weeks due to a hamstring strain, with Jones filling in at center.
Ryan McMahon will start at third base against Gray, having entered Game 1 as a defensive replacement. The Yankees' lineup on Wednesday features only one right-handed hitter, rookie shortstop George Lombard Jr.
Boone had informed Chisholm prior to Game 1 that he should be prepared, stating he "might be the most important person in the building tonight." However, the Yankees' decisive win meant Chisholm did not enter the game. Now, he has the opportunity to contribute as the Yankees seek to sweep the series and advance to the ALDS against the Tampa Bay Rays.