Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 17, 2024 9:03 am GMT
In an essential playoff matchup, Jon Berti is stepping into a surprising role for the New York Yankees. With the series against the Kansas City Royals on the line, Berti made his first professional start at first base during Game 2 of the American League Division Series (ALDS). This move reflects strategic planning as the Yankees aim to secure a spot in the American League Championship Series (ALCS).
Yankees’ Tactical Shift
Berti’s selection to start at first base comes after Oswaldo Cabrera started in Game 1 against Royals’ pitcher Michael Wacha. Despite a loss in Game 2 where Berti went 1-for-4, his aggressive hitting and ability to connect with the ball left a positive impression. The Yankees harnessed the advantages of matchups when making this decision.
- Berti’s Performance: Though the Yankees lost 4-2 in Game 2, Berti demonstrated effective hitting after returning from the injured list in late September.
- Matchup Considerations: The Yankees believed that Berti could exploit Wacha’s weaknesses against right-handed batters, making this a calculated choice.
Wacha struggled with right-handed hitters throughout the season. His statistics reveal that righties have a 20.1% strikeout rate compared to lefties at 22.2%, along with a 7.2% walk rate against right-handers and only 5.7% against left-handers. This data likely informed Berti’s positioning in the lineup.
Game 3 Decisions
As the series developed, Yankees manager Aaron Boone faced uncertainty about the first base position heading into Game 3. Boone hadn’t finalized his decision as of Tuesday evening, raising questions about whether Berti or Cabrera would get the nod. He stated, “I haven’t made that decision yet… we’ll talk to a few coaches and things like that.”
- Cabrera’s Strengths: Oswaldo Cabrera has also shown promise, with a 107 wRC+ against right-handers this season. His ability to handle changeups makes him a valuable asset.
- Berti’s Edge: Notably, Berti has been 3-for-5 against Royals’ Game 3 pitcher Seth Lugo, which could further tilt the decision in his favor.
Berti’s speed and base-stealing potential could be pivotal, especially as the Yankees look for any edge to push past the Royals.
The Importance of This Series
This series is more than just a game for the Yankees; it represents a chance to advance further into the playoffs. If they succeed, they will reach the ALCS for the first time since 2017. The stakes are high, and every lineup adjustment and player performance becomes crucial.
- Pitching Matchup: Gerrit Cole, who will start for the Yankees in Game 3, will face a tough challenge in Lugo. This rematch could set the tone for the Yankees’ extended playoff journey.
- Home Field Advantage: Kansas City aims to defend its home turf, and the home crowd can turn the tide of a tightly contested series.
The Yankees hope to find the winning formula in these high-pressure games. With Berti’s unexpected start and potential positional changes, the team is looking to optimize their chances for success.
Conclusion
The Yankees are getting ready for Game 3 against the Royals, and every choice they make is important. Jon Berti’s part on the team shows how strategy can help them win in the playoffs. Will he step up and help his team succeed? With the ALDS on the line, fans are excited to see how these decisions will affect the game. The path to the Championship Series might depend on these key matchups and changes in the lineup.
