September 23 lineup card against Tampa Bay lists Ryan McMahon at third base and Spencer Lombard batting second. The move sparked accusations of tanking. The decision reads as a rehearsal for an American League Division Series matchup rather than a surrender of a regular season game.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Why did the Yankees start Ryan McMahon against Tampa Bay on September 23?
- A: The Sept 23 lineup card listed Ryan McMahon at third base and Spencer Lombard batting second, interpreted as a tactical experiment for a potential ALDS matchup rather than a standard regular season choice.
- Q: Are the Yankees tanking games before the postseason?
- A: The decision sparked tanking accusations, but it reads more like a playoff rehearsal against the Rays than an intentional surrender of a regular season game.
- Q: What is the strategic purpose of starting Ryan McMahon now?
- A: To test matchups, positioning and personnel against Tampa Bay ahead of a possible American League Division Series.