dailyloe.com – The New York Yankees opted to start veteran Paul Goldschmidt over rookie Ben Rice against San Francisco Giants left-hander Robbie Ray on Friday. This decision came despite the team’s stated confidence in Rice’s ability to hit left-handed pitching. Manager Aaron Boone explained the move was a strategic choice for the season’s first nine games. Robbie Ray is the only left-handed starter the Yankees are scheduled to face during this initial stretch.
Boone utilized his full bench of right-handed hitters for the game at Oracle Park in San Francisco. Alongside Goldschmidt replacing Rice, Amed Rosario started for Ryan McMahon and Randal Grichuk for Trent Grisham. The manager wanted to ensure these players saw game action early. He emphasized the importance of getting their veteran bats into the lineup against a tough lefty.
The Yankees believe Rice can handle left-handed pitching after his 2023 performance. Last season, the rookie posted a .752 on-base plus slugging percentage against lefties. However, Goldschmidt presents a proven, elite option against southpaws. The former MVP hit .336 with a stellar .981 OPS against left-handed pitchers last year.
Boone confirmed both Rice and Grisham will get opportunities against lefties this season. Playing time decisions will depend on the weekly schedule and pitcher matchups. The team plans to pick its spots for Rice to face left-on-left pitching. This game-specific strategy highlights the depth and flexibility of the Yankees’ current roster construction.
The move underscores a careful, data-informed approach to player management early in the 162-game season. It balances developing a promising rookie with leveraging established veteran performance. The Yankees’ lineup decisions will continue to be a point of analysis as they navigate the American League schedule.[]
Source: New York Post
