Last month, the Yankees’ October plans for left field became the subject of much opinion and speculation. Now we know how the team will open its postseason run: by starting Alex Verdugo against Kansas City in Game 1 of the American League Division Series on Saturday, according to league sources briefed on the team’s plans.
The decision does not mean that Jasson Dominguez will never start in the postseason; the Yanks will take it game by game in deciding which of their two left fielders to play.
On Saturday, the Yanks will face veteran right-hander Michael Wacha.
Verdugo endured a disappointing season at the plate, posting a .647 OPS. But Dominguez, recalled for one game in August and then for good on Sept. 9, featured a .617 OPS in 18 games. He homered twice and stole five bases.
Dominguez brings more offensive upside, but is still learning to play left field. A natural center fielder, the 21-year-old took several shaky routes to fly balls last month.
Defensive metrics are somewhat split on Verdugo, but the eye test shows a plus left fielder. The Yankees have historically tried to emphasize defense and athleticism at the position, due to the spacious left field at their home park.