Aaron Boone was heavily criticized after leaving Jazz Chisholm Jr. out of the lineup in the first game of the Wild Card Series. The player himself publicly expressed his annoyance with a laconic “well, I guess,” reflecting the internal tension in the Yankees. However, his return in the second game was key.
Although he went 0-for-3 at the plate, he responded with a crucial defensive play and scored the run that sealed the 4-3 comeback over the Red Sox in the eighth inning. That contribution proved vital to keeping the season alive and securing a third do-or-die game.
Boone confirms Chisholm for Game 3
Ahead of the crucial encounter, Boone confirmed that Chisholm will be part of the lineup, dispelling any doubts after his performance in the second game. “Jazz will play,” said the manager. What he still has not defined is the rest of the lineup, in particular who will occupy first base.
The dilemma is clear: Paul Goldschmidt, with solid numbers against left-handed pitchers, or Ben Rice, who shone in Game 2 with a solo home run and two RBIs. “Obviously, Benny hits really well, especially down the stretch. So yeah, it makes it tough,” Boone admitted, highlighting the puzzle he faces for the series finale.
The equation behind the receiver
While first base is a real dilemma, the catcher position seems clearer. Austin Wells was the hero in the second game with a decisive two-out drive down the right-field line in the eighth inning.
That hit was crucial in sealing the victory and restoring the confidence of the young catcher, who is set to repeat as a starter. Boone knows that moving that piece could be risky, especially in a knockout game where every detail counts.
The seamless Boone-Chisholm relationship
Beyond the external criticism, the atmosphere between Boone and Chisholm seems calm. After the first game, Jazz did not hide his frustration, but quickly clarified that there was no personal conflict. “There was never any problem between Aaron Boone and me. He has been my manager all year and I have supported him all year,” the player said.
Boone downplayed the controversy by saying that he did not feel any resentment in his star: “If there was an extra chip, I don’t think it was anything bad. It can be positive for a certain person,” he said, downplaying any misunderstanding.
Everything is ready for a historic duel
With the series tied at 1-1, the Yankees and Red Sox face off in a winner-takes-all third game. The inclusion of Chisholm, along with the decision on first base, will set the tone for the final lineup.
The truth is that the New Yorkers will need the speed, energy and defensive reliability of their controversial player in what is projected to be an intense matchup. Boone knows that every move will be decisive in a game that could define not only the season, but also the immediate future of several of its players.
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