Yankees' decision to send Giancarlo Stanton was an ill-fated sign of desperation

NEW YORK — The earth has been moved and the chairs have been arranged as the New York Yankees face a crucial situation in the 2024 World Series. After a 4-2 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 3 at Yankee Stadium, the Yankees are now down 3-0 in the series. No team has ever come back from this deficit in the World Series, and the Yankees know the challenge they face.

Reflecting on their situation, Aaron Judge acknowledged that their backs are against the wall. Manager Aaron Boone expressed hope for an incredible comeback story, but the odds are daunting.

The Yankees' predicament became evident with Giancarlo Stanton's ill-fated dash home in the fourth inning. Down 3-0 at the time, the team faced significant pressure, but sending the slow-footed Stanton against Teoscar Hernández’s strong arm proved risky. Despite being the Yankees' best postseason hitter, Stanton was tagged out at home, a strategic move Boone later defended, noting the need to challenge Hernández.

Throughout the series, the Yankees have struggled offensively, with Aaron Judge notably enduring a difficult postseason. With a lineup failing to capitalize on opportunities, sending Stanton highlighted their desperation. Starting pitcher Clarke Schmidt left the team trailing early, and the Dodgers' Walker Buehler effectively suppressed the Yankees' offense.

As they head into Game 4, the Yankees will start rookie Luis Gil, indicating their reluctance to risk Gerrit Cole on short rest. While they hope for a win to begin a potential comeback, history is not on their side, suggesting the Dodgers are poised to celebrate.

Aaron Judge remains optimistic, focused on winning one game at a time, while Anthony Rizzo notes their marginalized position. The narrative of this series hinges not on the Yankees' hopes but rather on how their story ends.