Finishing out a rematch of last year’s ALDS, the Kansas City Royals will take on the New York Yankees. The Yankees have taken both of the few two matchups, so Kansas City will look to salvage the series finale.
Kris Bubic takes the ball for the Royals. So far, his hot stretch opening 2023 in the rotation has not looked like a fluke as he has been even better this season. He makes up for lackluster fastball velo with a more diverse pitch mix than at any point in the past. His changeup and sweeper have been particularly effective for him. Bubic last faced the Yankees in Game 3 of the ALDS last year, surrendering the eventual game-winning home run to Giancarlo Stanton.
New York counters with Clarke Schmidt. Schmidt is making his season debut having started the year on the injured list with a shoulder issue. He was limited to just 16 starts last year but was very good, posting a 2.85 ERA and 3.58 FIP. A cutter is his most-oft used pitch and he’ll also mix in a sweeper, sinker, and curve. He works more east-west as opposed to the north-south approach that is common among modern pitchers. Schmidt also pitched in Game 3 last October, working 4.2 innings and allowing two runs as New York’s starter.
In the lineup, Maikel Garcia will bat fifth as the DH. Tyler Tolbert cracks the starting lineup for the first time at the keystone.
First pitch: 6:05 pm CDT
