Aaron Judge is STILL out for the ALDS. Yeah, you heard that right, the Yankees just dropped their 26-man roster for the series against Tampa Bay and Judge is nowhere on it. But they did make a move: lefty pitcher Ryan Weathers is back as a reliever, his first time since late August after a left forearm flexor strain. To make that happen, third baseman Amed Rosario got left off the roster. Big shake-up right before they face the Rays.
The Big Roster Shuffle: Who’s In, Who’s Out
So, Judge is out again, which is a huge blow, no doubt. But the big news is Ryan Weathers’ return. This guy’s been on the IL with a left forearm flexor strain, and his last appearance was way back in late August. Now, he’s suddenly available as a reliever for the American League Division Series. To slot Weathers back in, the Yankees had to make a tough call, and third baseman Amed Rosario got the short end of the stick, left off the roster completely. This isn’t a massive overhaul from the Wild Card Series, but those two specific changes could definitely shift how they approach things against Tampa Bay.
The Bats Ready to Brawl in Tampa Bay
Alright, let’s talk about the guys who are actually stepping up to the plate.
* Cody Bellinger: This guy’s gotta be the offense’s engine with Judge out. He was clutch in the Wild Card Series, went 3-for-9, and that homer sealed Game 2. If he stays red-hot in Tampa, the Pinstripes stay on top. No pressure or anything, Belli!
* José Caballero: Total utility guy, probably gonna be locking down third base. He’s got potential defensively, could even snag a start over Ryan McMahon. The bat was kinda quiet in September, hitting .163 with a .260 OBP, and he didn’t even get an at-bat in the Wild Card, so he’s got something to prove.
* Jazz Chisholm Jr.: Get ready for Jazz to bring the heat at second base in those high-stakes moments, probably alternating with Anthony Volpe. He showed up in Wild Card Game 2 with a 2-for-3 day, two runs, and drew a walk. That’s the kind of spark they need.
* Luis García Jr.: Remember that bomb he drilled in Game 2 that helped dominate Boston? Yeah, he’s gotta keep that energy up against the Rays. He’ll likely be splitting time with Paul Goldschmidt, especially against lefties.
* Paul Goldschmidt: Talk about a veteran presence! Goldy’s the reliable first base guy, setting the tone for the younger dudes. He came up big with two walks late in Wild Card Game 1, perfectly setting up Ben Rice for that grand slam. That’s big-time leadership.
* Trent Grisham: He just came back from the IL in the Wild Card Series, and now he’s probably alternating in center with Spencer Jones. It’s anyone’s guess if he’ll start against Tampa Bay over Jones, but keeping him ready to pinch-hit could be the smart play.
* Spencer Jones: This kid just had his postseason debut, so you know he’s riding that momentum into Tampa Bay. But if the bat struggles, don’t be shocked to see a pinch-hitter like Stanton step in. High pressure for the rookie!
* George Lombard Jr.: This dude was a standout in the Wild Card Series. You can just tell he brings confidence defensively while also remainin…
The Yankees are looking to carry their Wild Card momentum into the ALDS against the Rays. Every player on this roster has to bring their A-game. What’s gonna happen when these guys hit Tampa Bay? You just know it’s going to be a battle, and every single at-bat is going to count.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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