Yankees Finalize Game 1 Wild Card Lineup with Key Infield Decisions
Anthony Volpe starts at second base, while Amed Rosario gets the nod at third against the Red Sox.
The New York Yankees have announced their starting lineup for Game 1 of the Wild Card series against the Boston Red Sox, revealing crucial decisions at second and third base.
Anthony Volpe will start at second base and bat seventh, while Amed Rosario is set to play third base and hit sixth. These choices come as the Yankees prepare to face Boston's left-handed starting pitcher, Payton Tolle.
The decision to start Volpe over Jazz Chisholm Jr. at second base was reportedly based on the need for another right-handed bat against Tolle. Chisholm's performance against left-handed pitchers this season was .218 with a .650 OPS.
At third base, the Yankees opted for Rosario over options like Caballero. While Rosario has a history of hitting left-handed pitchers well, his performance against them this season was .208 with a .606 OPS. The team also considered defensive capabilities and speed, with Caballero noted for his strong glove and baserunning.
Other lineup decisions include Ben Rice as the designated hitter and Spencer Jones in center field, ahead of the recently activated Trent Grisham. Luis Garcia Jr., a trade deadline acquisition, will be on the bench, as will Giancarlo Stanton, who could be available as a pinch-hitter.
The Yankees' starting nine for Game 1 is as follows:
Paul Goldschmidt, 1B Ben Rice, DH Heliot Ramos, RF Cody Bellinger, LF George Lombard, SS Amed Rosario, 3B Anthony Volpe, 2B Spencer Jones, CF Austin Wells, C