Giancarlo Stanton Returns as Yankees Reveal Lineup for Do-or-Die ALCS Game 5
By Ryan Giglio
The New York Yankees' $300 million man is finally ready to contribute to the team's World Series chase.
After missing Games 2-4 with a quad injury, Giancarlo Stanton will return to New York's lineup for Friday's win or go home Game 5.
The slugger is batting cleanup, right behind Gleyber Torres.
Ready to fight back. #NextManUp pic.twitter.com/pvIGrci3sp
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) October 18, 2019
While Yankees fans like to criticize Stanton for his struggles, it's easy to forget that the slugger was 2-for-4 with a homer off Zack Greinke in Game 1 of the series.
Stanton's presence will do wonders for the Bombers' lineup, especially since it means Edwin Encarnación will be on the bench.
Encarnación is hitting just .067 with a .355 OPS in the ALCS, so Stanton's bat is definitely an upgrade.
Tonight's Game 5 is a literal must-win for the Yankees. pic.twitter.com/G3D9XOdEIG
— YES Network (@YESNetwork) October 18, 2019
No matter who is in the lineup, the Bombers will not have it easy against Justin Verlander. While New York did well against Verlander in Game 2, his status as one of the best postseason pitchers ever is more than solidified at this point.