Boone Benched McMahon for Yankees Doubleheader
Manager Aaron Boone shifted the lineup to start Jose Caballero at third base.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Baseball
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Should managers prioritize recent player performance over established veteran roles in the starting lineup?
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone moved Jose Caballero into the starting lineup at third base for the team's doubleheader against the Tampa Bay Rays. Ryan McMahon, who has struggled at the plate, was held out of the starting rotation but remains available on the bench.
Why it matters
The managerial decision reflects ongoing concerns regarding offensive production as the Yankees navigate the final week of the regular season. With postseason positioning tightening, the team is prioritizing current performance over established roles in the infield.
The Yankees have seven regular-season games remaining on the calendar. Game one of the doubleheader against the Tampa Bay Rays is scheduled for a first pitch at 1:05 p.m. ET.
The players
Aaron Boone
He is the manager of the New York Yankees who oversees daily roster management and strategic lineup decisions.
Jose Caballero
He is an infielder for the New York Yankees who was tapped to start at third base for the doubleheader.
Ryan McMahon
He is a New York Yankees infielder who has faced significant recent struggles at the plate.
Carlos Rodon
He is the starting pitcher assigned to take the mound for the New York Yankees in the first game.
Jazz Chisholm Jr.
He is a professional baseball player returning to the New York Yankees active roster from the injured list.
The details
Aaron Boone released the starting lineup for Tuesday's first game, signaling a potential shift in infield priorities. While Ryan McMahon is relegated to the bench, the team also welcomes Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to the roster from the injured list.
Timeline
September 20, 2026: Ryan McMahon was absent from the starting lineup.
September 22, 2026: The Yankees begin a doubleheader series against the Rays.
September 22, 2026 1:05 p.m. ET: First pitch scheduled for the first game.
Season Trajectory
This lineup change signifies a heightened level of urgency as the team approaches the end of the regular season. By adjusting the infield, the Yankees are attempting to maximize offensive output to secure their standing in the playoff race.
Jose Caballero will assume defensive duties at third base, directly impacting fantasy lineups and defensive metrics for the first game. The absence of Ryan McMahon from the starting nine signals a diminished role for him in the immediate series rotation.
The takeaway
The late-season shift suggests that the coaching staff is prioritizing immediate results over loyalty to struggling veterans. Managers often shorten their benches in the final week to ensure the highest-performing players are on the field for every critical out.
Further reading
For more updates on the team's postseason pursuit, follow our Baseball coverage.
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Should managers prioritize recent player performance over established veteran roles in the starting lineup?
