Yankees' Paul Goldschmidt: Recent Lineup Exclusions and Performance Analysis

Why this matters: Goldschmidt's reduced playing time and potential shift to a part-time role could impact the Yankees' lineup and their strategic decisions. Fantasy baseball enthusiasts should also take note, as his reduced playing time affects his fantasy value.

Paul Goldschmidt's recent absences from the Yankees' lineup raise questions about his role and future playing time. After starting at first base in five of the six games prior, his exclusion from the July 3rd game against Toronto signals a potential shift in the team's strategy.

The Yankees aren't treating Goldschmidt as a pure platoon player, but his opportunities to play against right-handed pitching have been scaled back considerably following Giancarlo Stanton's return from the 60-day injured list June 16. Since that date, the Yankees have faced 11 right-handed starting pitchers, and Goldschmidt has been included in the lineup for six of those matchups. Both Goldschmidt (.273 wOBA) and Stanton (.299 wOBA) could be in danger of fading into part-time roles if the Yankees commit to open up steadier playing time for Rice (.379 wOBA) and Jasson Dominguez (.345 wOBA), both of whom have been far more effective against righties this season.

Ben Rice has been taking over at first base in Goldschmidt's absence, indicating a possible changing of the guard. With both Rice and Jasson Dominguez performing well against right-handed pitching (.379 wOBA and .345 wOBA, respectively), Goldschmidt's future role remains uncertain. The Yankees may be considering a transition to incorporate younger, more effective players into the lineup.

Goldschmidt was absent from the lineup for the game in Toronto, with Ben Rice taking his place.

Yes, his playing time, especially against right-handed pitchers, has decreased since Giancarlo Stanton's return from the injured list.

Ben Rice has been filling in at first base during Goldschmidt's absences.

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