The New York Yankees face elimination tonight against the Boston Red Sox, with a trip to the division series on the line. After pulling out a 4-3 thriller in Game 2, manager Aaron Boone is again tinkering with his lineup, hoping to push the Yankees past their rivals.
But Boone’s latest choice has raised questions. Before the series began, he told reporters that veteran Paul Goldschmidt would start against every left-handed pitcher. Tonight’s starter for Boston, rookie left-hander Connelly Early, seemed to guarantee Goldschmidt’s return. Instead, Boone reversed course.
When asked about the change, Boone offered a two-word explanation: “Ben Rice.”
Rice, a rookie who can play catcher and first base, has surged into the spotlight. With Austin Wells entrenched behind the plate thanks to his elite defensive metrics — ranking in the 96th percentile in framing and the 94th in fielding run value — Rice has found opportunities at first base. His bat made the difference in Game 2, when he went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs.
Goldschmidt has hardly struggled, going 2-for-4 in Game 1 before serving as a late defensive replacement in Game 2. For Game 3, he’ll likely reprise that role — either as a defensive sub if the Yankees lead or as a pinch hitter in a high-leverage spot.
Boone also shuffled third base again, starting Amed Rosario after Jose Caballero and Ryan McMahon handled the position in the first two games.
With their season at stake, the Yankees hope Boone’s bold choices deliver one more victory against their fiercest rival in the Bronx.