In a disheartening series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday night, the Yankees suffered a 5-4 defeat. Despite an outstanding effort from Harrison Bader, the team was unable to overcome their struggles in defensive play and limited offensive output with runners in scoring position.
With two men on base and the game hanging in the balance, the Yankees opted for pinch-hitter Isiah Kiner-Falefa, boasting a mere .193 average and .233 OBP this season. Manager Aaron Boone chose IKF over Aaron Hicks, who has a .146 average, .212 OBP, 3 wRC+, and -0.