In a crucial turn of events for the New York Yankees, pitcher Max Fried is set to make his much-anticipated comeback from injury in the second game of a doubleheader. This return comes on the heels of a hard-fought first game, where the Yankees nearly orchestrated a late-game rally, only to fall short in extra innings. The team is now focused on splitting the day's games and clinching the series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, with Fried's performance being a key factor in their strategy.
Fried's last appearance on the mound was on May 13th against the Orioles, a game he exited after just three innings due to a noticeable drop in his pitch velocity. Subsequent diagnosis revealed a bone bruise in his left elbow, leading to a month-long layoff. His sole rehabilitation start for the Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders last Friday saw him concede two runs on three hits, with three strikeouts and no walks, over 52 pitches. Despite the limited rehab, the necessity of a doubleheader has prompted the Yankees to activate Fried from the injured list to start the nightcap. He will be on a strict pitch count, estimated to be around 60 pitches. Before his injury, Fried had maintained a solid record of 4-3 across ten starts, boasting a 3.21 ERA (132 ERA+), a 2.71 FIP, and 50 strikeouts over 61.2 innings.
The Yankees will be looking to capitalize on Fried's return as they face off against Pittsburgh's rookie pitcher, Bubba Chandler. Chandler, a 23-year-old right-hander, is known for his aggressive approach, primarily relying on a 99 mph four-seamer, complemented by a slider and a changeup. However, his high walk rate of 13.1 percent, the highest among all starting pitchers in baseball, suggests an opportunity for the Yankees to adopt a patient hitting strategy. In his 18 starts this season, Chandler holds a 3-8 record with a 4.77 ERA (92 ERA+), a 4.59 FIP, and 85 strikeouts across 94.1 innings.
In preparation for the second game, the Yankees have made three significant changes to their lineup. Anthony Volpe will take over at shortstop from José Caballero, a move that is also intended to alleviate any lingering tensions with the umpiring crew following a pitch clock incident in the first game. Paul Goldschmidt will start at first base, shifting Ben Rice to the designated hitter position and Spencer Jones to the bench. Additionally, Ali Sánchez will replace Austin Wells behind the plate. The Pirates have also adjusted their lineup in response to facing the lefty Fried. Marcell Ozuna will be the designated hitter, moving Ryan O'Hearn to first base and Tyler Callihan to the bench. Jared Triolo steps in for Jacob Gonzalez at shortstop, despite Gonzalez's home run against Gerrit Cole earlier, and Rafael Flores Jr. will replace Henry Davis as catcher.
The Yankees are strategically positioning themselves for a crucial victory, banking on Fried's experience and a refreshed lineup to overcome the Pirates and secure a series split, showcasing their resilience and tactical depth in a demanding doubleheader. The outcome of this game is vital for their standing and momentum as the season progresses.
