dailyloe.com – New York Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon will ride the bench for most of the team’s series against the Kansas City Royals. Manager Aaron Boone made the decision due to McMahon’s severe struggles at the plate this season. The move allows McMahon to focus on mechanical work behind the scenes. Boone’s lineup for the series opener featured Amed Rosario starting at third base.
This decision came despite Royals starter Michael Wacha being a right-handed pitcher. Wacha is considered a neutral right-hander in his career. Boone chose Rosario due to McMahon’s poor hitting and Rosario’s strong performance. The manager’s choice highlights the current disparity in their offensive production.
Boone indicated this is likely a stretch where McMahon will not start. He cited the upcoming matchups over the next six games as a key factor. After Wacha, the Royals will start two left-handed pitchers. The following series against the Boston Red Sox should also feature two lefties.
“This is probably a stretch [where he won’t start] and he’s working on a lot of things behind the scenes that I actually feel like I’m seeing some progress on,” Boone explained. The manager expressed the team’s need for McMahon to be a factor. He emphasized this is needed both defensively and offensively for the Yankees.
Boone stated there will probably be a lot of Rosario in the lineup during this period. This allows McMahon to continue working through his issues. The manager did not commit to Rosario starting all three games against the Royals. He noted there will be lefties in the lineup against Cole Ragans on Sunday due to reverse splits.
McMahon is specifically working on staying more square with his shoulders. Boone explained McMahon can rotate his front side, which gets him in and out of the zone. The manager said he feels McMahon is making some progress on the adjustment. Boone highlighted McMahon’s offensive talent and knowledge of the strike zone.
“Again, he’s really talented offensively. There’s real juice in the bat. There’s knowledge of the strike zone. Hopefully, we can get him to a better place ….we need his production, especially down at the bottom of the lineup,” Boone said. The team is focused on helping McMahon return to form. His production is considered vital for the lineup’s success.
McMahon’s season statistics show he is 5-for-42 with all singles. He has recorded two RBI and eight walks so far. In contrast, Amed Rosario is 9-for-34 at the plate. Rosario has a double, two home runs, and six RBI this season.[]
Source: Yahoo Sports
