With 0-2 trail in the seven game series, the New York Yankees are desperate to bounce back in Game 3 which is scheduled at the Yankee Stadium. This Game will make or break the Yanks’ odds of clinching their first World Series title in the past 15 years.
Naturally, manager Aaron Boone needs to be extra cautious with his lineup call. Fans and analysts demand an immediate change as they believe the current setup is not sustainable to last. Having said that, with hours left for the Game, let’s explore two quick changes the New York Yankees can embrace to improve winning odds.
Yankees Need Lineup Shake-Up Ahead Of Game 3
As the New York Yankees return to the Bronx down 2-0 in the World Series, manager Aaron Boone faces mounting pressure to make changes that could shift the momentum against the Los Angeles Dodgers. With bullpen struggles and star Aaron Judge in a slump, Boone has key adjustments to consider. First, bullpen management needs re-evaluation. In Game 1, Boone chose Nestor Cortes for the tenth inning despite his recent return from injury. Freddie Freeman took advantage, hitting a historic walk-off grand slam. Moreover, Tim Hill, a postseason standout, was ready but unused. Hence, for Game 3, Hill should be Boone’s go-to against the left-heavy Dodgers’ lineup, while Cortes could move into a long-relief role. This shift will maximize the bullpen’s effectiveness.
On the other hand, Aaron Judge, hitting just .111 with six strikeouts in the World Series, is another pressing issue. Boone traditionally alternates right- and left-handed batters, but Judge’s slump calls for adjustment. Moving Judge to fifth, behind Giancarlo Stanton and Anthony Rizzo, would give Stanton and Rizzo, both in solid form, more chances with runners on base. This lineup tweak could rejuvenate the Yankees’ offense while sending a message that no spot is guaranteed, not even for the team captain. Besides, the lower order also has to come alive. The inexperienced card does not work in playoffs, especially in the World Series, where the stakes are so high. Hence, the skipper needs to deliver a strong speech before they step out. Overall, for the New York Yankees, Game 3 is a must-win. Boone’s adjustments could help the team capitalize on home-field advantage and keep their championship hopes alive.
Who Deserves Most Blame For 2-0 Deficit?
The New York Yankees find themselves in a 2-0 hole against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, with several players under intense scrutiny. Among those struggling, Carlos Rodon, Austin Wells, and Aaron Judge stand out as needing to step up to keep New York’s title hopes alive.
Rodon’s Game 2 start was rough, lasting only 3.1 innings and surrendering four earned runs off homers by Dodgers’ sluggers. Besides, Austin Wells has struggled at the plate throughout the postseason, with just a .098 batting average across 11 games. Lastly, captain Aaron Judge needs a breakthrough. With six strikeouts across two games, Judge admitted he’s struggling to find his swing.
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