Boone plays lineup hunch, Rosario rewards it with 2-HR outburst

NEW YORK -- Yankees manager Aaron Boone usually inserts third baseman Ryan McMahon in the starting lineup against right-handed pitching. But McMahon is currently riding a 2-for-23 slump, and Boone had a feeling that Amed Rosario was the right guy to get the start against Athletics righty Aaron Civale on Tuesday night at Yankee Stadium.

Boone’s gut feeling paid off -- big time. Rosario hit two homers, including the go-ahead three-run blast in the eighth inning as New York defeated the A's, 5-3.

Boone knew Rosario would be ready to start even though the last game he played was April 1 in Seattle. Boone always talks about Rosario’s work ethic and the high energy he brings on the field and in the clubhouse.

“The one thing that [stuck with me] about him last year was how good he was staying ready and being prepared,” the skipper said. “He went on the IL a quick 10 days after he ran into the fence in right field. He came back and didn’t need a rehab assignment. He sure was ready. He is really good at doing what he needs to do to be ready every single day.”

Rosario was ready against the A’s. It helped that the Yankees were familiar with right-hander Mark Leiter Jr. He was a member of the Bronx Bombers for a year-plus and was part of the team that went to the World Series in 2024.

Leiter came into the game during the eighth inning when New York began its rally. Giancarlo Stanton made it a 3-2 game with a single that scored Cody Bellinger. Two batters later, Rosario put the game on ice with a Statcast-projected 414-foot shot to give the Yankees a two-run lead.

“[There were] a lot of emotions there,” Rosario said through interpreter Marlon Abreu. “I was looking for a pitch where I could do some damage. I got it.”

Boone pushed the right button as far as the lineup goes.

“It was a no-doubter to pull the victory out. It was a big night for him,” Boone said. “I just like seeing guys have success. It’s about the Yankees. You are invested in these guys, and you always get excited when they do well personally, too.

“We brought Rosie back because not only is he a really good player, but he is a tremendous teammate. He sets an amazing example for everyone. I’m happy for him to just get it done.”

One can only imagine how loudly the Yankees reacted when Rosario reached the home dugout after his go-ahead blast.

“We were all excited for him to come through at that moment,” teammate José Caballero said. “It’s great to have him on the team. He never has a bad day. He always has high energy. It’s good for the club and for him.”

Said Rosario: “They were so happy, excited. I’m very thankful. All these guys are great teammates, always supporting one another. I was very excited to see them there.”

After the game, Rosario explained why he stays positive even though he doesn’t play every day. He hasn’t played regularly since he was with the Guardians back in 2023.

“Although I’m not playing every day, I try to not let that affect me mentally,” he said. “Over the years, I’ve been able to create a routine to help me do my job.”

After the great game he had, does this mean Rosario will face more right-handed pitching?

“Not necessarily. There are certain matchups I like him in,” Boone said. “There are a number of lefties coming up, so competition is always a good thing.”