Max Fried falters for Yankees and leaves Carlos Rondon a non-factor in ALDS

Lineup Changes and Player Performances

• Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s Demotion: Aaron Boone moved Jazz Chisholm Jr., who had committed multiple errors in the previous games, to a bench role for Game 3 of the ALDS against the Tampa Bay Rays.

• Ryan McMahon's Error: In Game 2, Ryan McMahon made a fielding error on the first play of the game and was subsequently benched in favor of José Caballero for Game 3.

• Anthony Volpe's Promotion: Anthony Volpe took over at second base from Jazz Chisholm Jr., marking his first start in the postseason.

• Trent Grisham's Struggles as Leadoff Hitter: Despite being moved to leadoff, Trent Grisham struggled and struck out three times during Game 3 of the ALDS.

• Max Fried's Inconsistent Performance: Max Fried started Game 3 but allowed runs in his last four innings despite moments of dominance, contributing to the Yankees' elimination from the playoffs.

• Carlos Rodon's Absence: Despite being a strong option, Carlos Rodon did not get an opportunity to pitch during the ALDS against the Rays due to the decision to stick with Max Fried.

• Austin Wells’ Base-Running Error in Game 1: Austin Wells made a critical base-running error that impacted Game 1 of the series against the Rays.

Key Players and Their Roles

• José Caballero’s First Start as Third Baseman: José Caballero was given his first start at third base during Game 3, with the hope that his speed would bring a spark to the lineup.

• Luis Garcia Jr.'s Continuation in First Base Role: Luis Garcia Jr., despite team changes around him, continued in his role as the starting first baseman for Game 3.

• Max Fried's Last-Minute Decision: The Yankees decided on Max Fried over Carlos Rodon to start Game 3, despite having a mixed record in playoff games with the Yankees.

Overall Team Performance

• The Yankees struggled defensively and offensively during Games 2 and 3 of the ALDS against the Rays.
• Despite lineup adjustments, key players like Chisholm Jr., McMahon, and Grisham underperformed significantly.
• Max Fried's inconsistency highlighted weaknesses in the pitching rotation that were exacerbated by defensive lapses.

These factors led to the Yankees' elimination from the playoffs, leaving the team with significant questions heading into the offseason regarding player performance and strategic decisions.