BOSTON — Aaron Boone seems to be aware of the frustration some fans express online regarding lineup choices. In fact, he’s open to questioning these decisions himself.
“We have a really good team, lots of talented players, and we should still perform even on days they aren’t playing,” the Yankees manager commented prior to their 4-1 victory at Fenway Park. “That said, they are undeniably the key players.”
In a game against Boston, manager Boone opted for Paul Goldschmidt to start at first base instead of Ben Rice, among other lineup alterations. Randal Grichuk was placed sixth in the batting order, Cody Bellinger shifted to center field, and Trent Grisham made his second consecutive start.
Although Rice has succeeded against both left-handed and right-handed pitchers this season, Boone felt Goldschmidt was better suited for this matchup against a lefty like Ranger Suarez.
Goldschmidt ended the game hitless in four at-bats but demonstrated solid plays at first base, highlighted by a lengthy 10-pitch battle to start the game.
Even with Goldschmidt in the lineup, Boone appears ready to bring in a substitute once left-handed hitters like Rice leave the game. Rice came in as a pinch hitter in the sixth inning, striking out but still managed a home run, a sacrifice fly, and a walk.
While the Red Sox have yet to announce their starter for Thursday, it might be left-hander Peyton Tolle. Boone suggested starting Rice in this case, marking his second appearance in three games against lefties.
As Goldschmidt’s playing time decreases, Rice is establishing himself as a reliable option against southpaws.
Boone noted how Goldschmidt, a 16-year veteran and former MVP, has handled the situation “fantastically.”
“Benny is getting more chances, and he’s really done well against lefties,” Boone said. “Obviously, finding time for Goldschmidt is more complicated now.”
One potential way to accommodate both Goldschmidt and Rice would be to move Rice to catcher, leaving Austin Wells out. However, Boone indicated that isn’t on the immediate agenda. Rice has been keeping sharp with bullpen sessions and live batting practice.
“At some point, that’s a possibility,” Boone mentioned about trying Rice as catcher, yet nothing specific is planned right now.
While Rice garners attention for his strong batting, the idea of benching Grisham—a high-paid player with a recent upswing in form—could stir some controversy.
Boone reassured that all players understand their roles and are ready to step in when needed. Grisham, who has typically been a leadoff hitter, entered as a pinch hitter but went hitless.
“We want everyone to progress,” Boone explained. “Everyone has their role, and specific players excel against certain matchups.”
It’s worth noting that Red Sox starting pitcher Sonny Gray won’t be facing the Yankees anytime soon as he’s on the injured list with a hamstring strain.
Despite his absence, Gray expressed enthusiasm in facing his old team, noting that being linked with a team that is often hated makes it easy for him.
Gray, who had experience with multiple teams before struggling with the Yankees, remarked that he never wanted to join New York in the first place, despite some conflicting narratives. He declined to elaborate further on his experiences.
The Yankees have placed Ryan Weathers on the paternity list and recalled right-hander Jake Byrd, expecting Weathers’ schedule to remain unaffected, likely returning to start on Saturday in Houston.
Meanwhile, Anthony Volpe played his second rehab game with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, going 0-for-3 without any strikeouts.
