Boone leans on Cabrera’s versatility, Verdugo’s experience for Yankees’ ALDS opener

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The New York Yankees have confirmed that Alex Verdugo and Oswaldo Cabrera will both be in the starting lineup for Game 1 of the ALDS against the Kansas City Royals. Yankees manager Aaron Boone detailed the reasoning behind his lineup choices, emphasizing the value each player brings both offensively and defensively as the team enters this critical postseason matchup.

Oswaldo Cabrera rakes over at first base

With veteran first baseman Anthony Rizzo sidelined due to finger fractures, Boone has chosen Oswaldo Cabrera to start at first base. Cabrera, known for his versatility, has been an important piece for the Yankees throughout the season, filling in various roles across the field. Boone highlighted Cabrera’s adaptability as a key factor in the decision. “Cabby has been such a steady player for us this year, someone we can rely on in so many different roles,” Boone said.

Though Cabrera has limited experience at first base—having logged only 57.1 innings there this season—Boone expressed confidence that Cabrera could hold his own, particularly on the defensive side. Cabrera’s impressive defensive ability at other infield positions, including third base where he accumulated seven defensive runs saved in 2024, was a crucial consideration. “We need someone who can do a little bit of everything, and Cabby’s our guy for that,” Boone explained. “I’m confident Cabby can give us that spark we need at first base, especially with the defensive stability he’s shown at other positions.”

Cabrera’s offensive numbers, including a .247/.296/.365 slash line, eight home runs, and 36 RBIs in 109 games, may not jump off the page, but Boone believes Cabrera’s energy and adaptability will be valuable assets. Boone also noted that the decision to go with Cabrera over rookie Ben Rice at first base came down to Cabrera’s ability to fit in a range of roles. Rice, who made an impressive debut earlier in the year, was sent back to the minors after struggling to maintain consistency, especially after Rizzo’s return from the injured list.

Alex Verdugo gets the start in LF

In addition to Cabrera, Alex Verdugo is set to start in left field and bat ninth for the Yankees in Game 1. Boone’s choice to start Verdugo over rising prospect Jasson Domínguez and fellow outfielder Trent Grisham was primarily based on Verdugo’s strong defense. “I just felt like this was the way to go for Game 1,” Boone explained. “Obviously, Alex has been tremendous for us out there defensively.

The choice was pretty much predictable as previously reported from last Friday’s batting practice session, which became a hint that Verdugo would start. Even though it’s been up and down for him in the second half, especially offensively, I still feel like there’s a really good hitter in there that can provide something for us at the bottom.”

Verdugo’s second half of the season was marked by inconsistency at the plate, hitting just .213 with three home runs in 62 games from July 7 onward. Despite his offensive struggles, Boone remains optimistic about Verdugo’s potential impact. “I believe there’s a good run of offense in Alex’s bat, and we need him to step up now,” Boone said. “Even though the numbers haven’t always been there, he has the ability to make a difference in key moments.”

Verdugo brings some postseason experience to the lineup, having previously hit .310 with an .835 OPS in 11 playoff games with the Boston Red Sox in 2011. Boone is hoping that Verdugo’s experience and defensive prowess will prove valuable as the Yankees look to make a deep postseason run. With Verdugo entering free agency this offseason, his performance in the playoffs could also have a significant impact on his future.

With Cabrera’s versatility and Verdugo’s defensive capabilities, Boone is confident that these lineup decisions give the Yankees the best chance to start strong in the ALDS against the Royals. As Game 1 approaches, Boone’s selections reflect his belief in the players who have consistently contributed across different roles, and his hope that they will rise to the occasion in the playoffs.

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