The red, white, and blue bunting still hangs from all levels of Yankee Stadium as the stage is set for the American League Championship Series opener. Yankees manager Aaron Boone anticipates a lively atmosphere with a playoff history between the Guardians and Yankees. Guardians manager Stephen Vogt acknowledges the challenge of facing a talented Yankees team.
Game 1 of the ALCS will take place at Yankee Stadium on Monday at 7:38 p.m. ET and can be watched on TBS, truTV, and Max. MLB.TV offers live streaming in the U.S., while select countries outside the U.S. also have access.
The Guardians have chosen veteran right-hander Alex Cobb as their starting pitcher for Game 1. Cobb returned from injury to start Game 3 of the ALDS but struggled in his first outing in over a month.
Carlos Rodón will start for the Yankees after pitching in ALDS Game 2 against Kansas City. He aims to better control his emotions after struggling early in his playoff debut.
Both teams will adjust their lineups accordingly based on their opponents’ starting pitchers.
The bullpen will play a crucial role for both teams throughout this series. The Guardians boast an impressive bullpen ERA this season, relying heavily on Cade Smith, Tim Herrin, Hunter Gaddis, Emmanuel Clase, Andrew Walters, and Erik Sabrowski when needed.
The Yankees’ bullpen was exceptional during the ALDS without allowing an earned run. Luke Weaver and Clay Holmes were standout performers against Kansas City.
In terms of injuries, Tyler Freeman is unlikely to be available for the Guardians due to an oblique strain. Nestor Cortes is progressing but has yet to face hitters since his elbow flexor strain injury for the Yankees.
Key players to watch include Kwan from Cleveland who has been hot at bat recently and Stanton from New York who had an impressive performance during the ALDS.
Fans can expect an exciting matchup between these two teams as they vie for a spot in this year’s World Series.