New York Yankees are 2-0 ahead in the seven-game AL Championship Series against Cleveland Guardians after a 6-3 win in Game 2 held on Tuesday at the Yankee Stadium. While there are still five more games to go, the Bronx Bombers necessarily have an upper hand over an under pressure Guardians.
Having said that, in case the New York Yankees do qualify for the ultimate World Series, they will need the best hands at the deck fit and determined to make a difference. And fortunately, an effective starting pitcher, who has been missing action all this October, has commenced a crucial return assignment.
Nestor Cortes Gearing Up For World Series Return
Left-hander Nestor Cortes could be a major asset to the New York Yankees if they reach the 2024 World Series. According to reports from manager Aaron Boone and insiders, Cortes is considered a “realistic option” for the roster should the team make it to the Fall Classic. Cortes, one of the team’s most reliable pitchers this season, led the team in innings pitched and had been instrumental in securing key victories. However, due to injuries, his availability was uncertain as the postseason progressed. The potential return of Cortes would provide a significant boost to the franchise’s pitching depth. However, Boone has hinted that while Cortes might not be slotted directly into the rotation, he could still play a vital role out of the bullpen.
His ability to adapt to both starting and relief roles makes him a versatile piece in a high-stakes series. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees, currently leading the ALCS 2-0 against the Cleveland Guardians, are just two wins away from their first World Series appearance since 2009. With Cortes in the mix, they could strengthen their chances of capturing another championship. As the series moves to Cleveland, the team is focusing on closing out the Guardians in Games 3 and 4. Clarke Schmidt will start Game 3, followed by Luis Gil in Game 4, which could be the clinching match for New York. Hence, should they advance, Cortes’ role will be closely monitored, with the possibility of replacing either Schmidt or Gil in the rotation. Regardless of whether he starts or comes out of the bullpen, his presence could provide a valuable edge as the Yanks aim for a 28th World Series title.
Yankees Likely To Shake Up Hitting Lineup
The New York Yankees are reportedly considering a significant lineup change ahead of Game 3 of the ALCS against the Cleveland Guardians. Manager Aaron Boone may be moving in-form slugger Giancarlo Stanton up to the cleanup spot, thus shifting catcher Austin Wells to the bench.
This adjustment would take advantage of Stanton’s recent power surge and capitalize on the on-base skills of Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, who bat ahead of him. Notably, Stanton has been performing exceptionally well in the postseason, hitting .304 with two home runs and five RBIs. Moreover, with Wells’ recent stint as a cleanup hitter now over, Jose Trevino is expected to catch.
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