Yankees' Jose Trevino Takes Center Stage in ALCS Game 3 Lineup Changes

The New York Yankees are making significant lineup changes for Game 3 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Cleveland Guardians. One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of Jose Trevino, who will be starting at catcher in place of Austin Wells. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to counter the Guardians' left-handed pitcher, Matthew Boyd, who has been extremely effective this postseason.

Trevino, known for his elite defense and occasional clutch hitting, is an important piece of the Yankees' roster. Manager Aaron Boone has expressed confidence in Trevino, highlighting his defensive prowess and the potential for him to contribute offensively as well. This decision was influenced by the fact that Boyd is a left-handed pitcher, and the Yankees have historically struggled against lefties.

Another key change is the substitution of Jon Berti for Anthony Rizzo at first base. Rizzo, who recently returned from a couple of fractured fingers, has been playing with caution. While he has shown some offense since his return, the Yankees are mindful of his injury and want to ensure he doesn't exacerbate it. Berti, who impressed during the ALDS against the Kansas City Royals, brings a natural right-handed hitting approach that could help counter Boyd's left-handedness.

The Yankees' decision to sit Rizzo and Wells was also influenced by their recent performances. Rizzo has been playing with fractured fingers, which has limited his effectiveness, while Wells has been in a slump since September. He entered September with a .795 OPS but hit just .111/.217/.194 in his final 83 trips to the plate. In the postseason, Wells has gone 2 for 24 with 10 strikeouts, making it clear that he needed a break.

Giancarlo Stanton, who has been on a red-hot streak this October, will be batting cleanup in the Yankees' lineup for Game 3. This move aims to capitalize on Stanton's recent success and create a powerful middle of the order. Stanton's presence in the cleanup spot could help drive in runs and put pressure on the Guardians' pitching staff.

The Yankees' strategy for Game 3 is clear: they aim to chase Boyd from the game as early as possible. With Trevino and Berti starting, along with Judge and Stanton hitting back-to-back, the Yankees believe they have a strong formula to achieve this goal. The bench is also stocked with options like Rizzo, Wells, Oswaldo Cabrera, Jasson Dominguez, and Trent Grisham, providing flexibility for later adjustments.

Clarke Schmidt will be on the mound for the Yankees, looking to provide five solid innings and put pressure on the Guardians. The bullpen, which has been a backbone for the Yankees this postseason, will also be crucial in securing a win. With Clay Holmes and Luke Weaver having appeared in several games already, there is a discussion about easing off on them to avoid overuse in the next few games.

The stakes are high for both teams as they vie for a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. Historically, teams that take a 3-0 advantage in a best-of-seven series go on to win around 85% of the time. The Yankees are positioning themselves for a potential World Series appearance with a win on Thursday.

In summary, the Yankees' decision to start Jose Trevino and Jon Berti in place of Austin Wells and Anthony Rizzo reflects a strategic approach to counter Matthew Boyd's left-handed pitching. The inclusion of Giancarlo Stanton in the cleanup spot adds another layer of power to the lineup. With Clarke Schmidt on the mound and a deep bench, the Yankees are well-equipped to take on the Guardians and secure a crucial win.

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