Yankees' lineup change for ALDS Game 2 shows they're just messing around

Game 2 of the ALDS will take place on Monday night at Yankee Stadium. The New York Yankees lead the series after Saturday's victory and had a number of unlikely contributors step up. Oswaldo Cabrera, who started at first base, was one of them.

But he will not be starting on Monday. The Yankees dropped their lineup ahead of tonight's matchup and revealed Jon Berti will be getting the nod at first base.

Cabrera went 1-for-4 with a double and three strikeouts on Saturday, but his impact came on the defensive end. He made a number of great plays at first base to tighten up the Yankees' defense.

As fans were probably aware of, however, the first base situation must be fluid after Anthony Rizzo's injury that could keep him out until the World Series, if they make it that far. Cabrera is certainly deserving of the most playing time because of his contributions this year, but Berti is probably the better fit against lefty Cole Ragans.

On top of that, Berti needs to get his reps in. He figures to be an important bench piece for a long postseason run and he can't be cold all night on the pine. Then again, this is Berti's first career start at first base, and it's coming in the playoffs.

Yankees' lineup change for ALDS Game 2 shows they're just messing around

That said ... what a luxury for the Yankees! They can rotate their starting first baseman for the sake of reps/matchups and probably not miss a beat whatsoever. The flip side? They have so many guys playing out of position, Berti/Cabrera included.

Prior to the 2024 season, Berti was acquired to provide the Yankees with utility depth. He represented a better versatile defender and baserunning threat than anybody on the roster. Unfortunately, he missed most of the year with a calf injury and only appeared in 25 games. He lost playing time because of the team's trade for Jazz Chisholm, too.

But he'll get an opportunity on Monday to show he's a worthwhile rotational piece as the playoffs progress. His speed and contact-first bat are qualities the lineup needs, whether he's starting or coming in as a pinch-hitter/runner or defensive replacement.

Look for Cabrera to come on late if the Yankees need a lefty bat off the bench. He should be called upon first, especially with his ability to slot in almost anywhere on the field.