The Yankees are still deliberating on who will start Game 1 of the American League Championship Series, with the choice between Carlos Rodon and Clarke Schmidt yet to be made.
Boone on waiting to make a decision
According to NJ.com, when asked directly if Carlos Rodon would get the nod on Monday, Aaron Boone’s response was unexpected: “No.” It caught many off guard, considering Rodón seemed to be the obvious choice.
“We’re going to let today unfold and then talk about it,” Boone explained. “We’ll probably make a decision [Saturday] night or in the morning.”
Later that afternoon, the Yankees learned they would face the Cleveland Guardians in the ALCS after Cleveland defeated the Tigers 7-3 in Game 5 of their Division Series. Boone acknowledged that the opponent could play a role in their final decision.
“That could factor in a little bit,” Boone said. “We’ll talk through that.”
Gerrit Cole confirmed for Game 2
Although the Yankees haven’t finalized their Game 1 starter, Boone confirmed Gerrit Cole will start Game 2 on Tuesday. He also revealed that rookie Luis Gil, who is scheduled to throw a simulated game on Sunday, will be used “later in the series.”
Rodón would be pitching on extra rest, having last appeared in Game 2 of the ALDS, while Schmidt would be on regular rest after pitching in Game 3. Boone reiterated, “We’ll let today unfold and talk about it.”
Boone praised Gerrit Cole’s strong performance in the ALDS, where the ace tossed seven innings, and discussed Rodón’s brief postseason outing.
“I’m sure there’s a lot of takeaways for him,” Boone said of Rodon. “Hopefully things that he can apply moving forward.”
Potential roster changes for the ALCS
The Yankees are also considering roster changes for the ALCS, including the possibility of adding another pitcher. Boone mentioned that Marcus Stroman, who was left off the ALDS roster, could be included this time. He also confirmed that Alex Verdugo would continue to start in left field, with Jasson Domínguez likely serving as a bench player if activated.
Rizzo’s status still uncertain
On the status of first baseman Anthony Rizzo, Boone said they’re taking a wait-and-see approach after Rizzo fractured two fingers late in the regular season.
“He hasn’t done a lot physically, like baseball-wise,” Boone noted. “He’s been letting that thing heal up as much as possible and doing a lot of treatments.” A decision on Rizzo is expected by Monday.
Boone also addressed DJ LeMahieu’s recovery, saying he’s been ramping up activity and is “doing pretty well” in his bid to be ready for the postseason.
Wells impresses behind the plate
Regarding the Yankees bullpen, which didn’t allow an earned run in 15 2/3 innings during the ALDS, Boone singled out rookie catcher Austin Wells for his leadership behind the plate.
“He’s been incredible back there,” Clay Holmes said of Wells. “You can tell he’s very in tune with what’s going on. There’s a lot of trust in him.”
Wells, who started all four ALDS games over Jose Trevino, is expected to remain the primary catcher throughout the postseason.
“Seeing how he’s navigated these games so far, it’s been big, especially for the first time in the playoffs and those environments,” Holmes added. “He makes it look a little easier than what it really is.”
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