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Yankees' Aaron Boone hoping for 'little spark' after making lineup change for Game 3 of ALDS

The New York Yankees, trailing 0-2 in the ALDS against the Tampa Bay Rays, are looking to turn things around in Game 3 at home. Manager Aaron Boone made notable lineup adjustments, moving right-handed hitters Anthony Volpe to second base and Jose Caballero to third, both replacing left-handed batters Jazz Chisholm Jr.

and Ryan McMahon. With Rays right-hander Nick Martinez on the mound—who has shown better reverse splits this season against righties (.261) than lefties (.236)—Boone aims to capitalize on the Yankees’ strength in that corner, though only Volpe, Caballero, and George Lombard Jr.

are right-handed starters. The offense has been a major concern, scoring just two runs in the first two games, a stark contrast to their 18-run outburst in the Wild Card Series against Boston.

Boone expressed confidence in his lineup, emphasizing the contributions of Volpe and Caballero, who have been key players this season, and hinted at a potential spark from their presence in the lineup.

Despite the lineup changes, Boone left room for Chisholm and McMahon to impact the game off the bench, calling Chisholm—who led the team with 19 home runs—“ready to go.” Volpe, making his second postseason start, is looking to build on a strong September (.265 in 49 at-bats) and a 1-for-3 performance in Game 1. The Yankees, tied for second in the AL in runs scored during the regular season, will need a strong offensive effort to avoid elimination in front of their home crowd.

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