The New York Yankees are bringing back two key veterans, Anthony Rizzo and Marcus Stroman, for the American League Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians.
Both players were officially added to the roster ahead of Game 1, with catcher Ben Rice and outfielder Duke Ellis removed from the 26-man squad that helped the team defeat the Kansas City Royals in the AL Division Series.
Rizzo, recovering from two fractured fingers he suffered on September 28, has shown enough improvement to make his return.
The first baseman’s experience could be a significant asset in this critical series, as he is one of only two Yankees with a World Series title under his belt.
Although Oswaldo Cabrera and Jon Berti filled in capably during the ALDS, Rizzo’s presence on the field brings leadership and stability to the Bombers.
However, it remains uncertain how effective Rizzo will be offensively.
He struggled to regain power after returning from a fractured forearm earlier in the season and now faces the challenge of swinging with fingers that may still be healing.
Speaking previously about his recovery, Rizzo acknowledged that under normal circumstances, the injury would have sidelined him for three to four weeks, but he’s returning in just two for the ALCS.
Stroman, who shifted to the bullpen in mid-September, provides depth and length for the Yankees’ relief corps.
The right-hander, who only made one relief appearance after his move to the bullpen, stepped back in as a starter when Nestor Cortes went down with injury.
Although Stroman lacks the dominant, swing-and-miss stuff typically relied on in the postseason, he kept himself prepared by facing live hitters last week, remaining stretched out in case the team needs him for extended innings.
Cortes, who is recovering from a left elbow flexor strain, was considered for a rushed return for the ALCS after throwing his first bullpen session on Sunday.
While he impressed in his workout, showing good velocity and command, pitching coach Matt Blake indicated that Cortes might be a more realistic option for the World Series if the Yankees advance.
“He threw the ball well [in his bullpen session],” Blake said. “Pretty crisp. The [velocity’s] in a good spot, lot of shapes, command was good. Feel good about where he’s at.”
The decision to reinstate Rizzo and Stroman meant some roster adjustments.
Ben Rice, with limited playing time due to Berti and Cabrera’s solid performance at first base, became expendable. Meanwhile, Duke Ellis, used as a pinch-runner only once during the ALDS, was also left off the roster as the Yankees already have speed options with Cabrera, Berti, and Jasson Dominguez.
Game 1 of the ALCS kicks off tonight at Yankee Stadium. First pitch is set for 7:38pm EST.
What are your thoughts on the roster moves???