Kansas City Royals vs New York Yankees Picks and Predictions June 11th 2024

Yankees’ Aaron Judge Set to Return to Face Royals in Crucial Matchup

The New York Yankees ticked off all the boxes on their Monday to-do list. They reintroduced Juan Soto to the lineup, provided Aaron Judge with his first day off of the season, and still managed to defeat the host Kansas City Royals 4-2.

The Yankees aim to continue their winning streak as they proceed with their four-game series against the Royals. With New York having won 10 of its last 12 games and Kansas City facing its second consecutive loss, the stage is set for an exciting showdown.

Key Highlights:

Resting Aaron Judge for Strategic Advantage New York manager Aaron Boone opted to rest Aaron Judge on Monday, even as his team faced Seth Lugo, one of the top pitchers in the majors. This decision, Boone explained, was planned to ensure Judge remains in peak condition. “Just a night off,” Boone stated. “I’ve kind of been marking this one down. He’s playing out of this world but played every day and a little bit beat up, too, so it’s important.”

Judge, leading the majors in homers (24), on-base percentage (.436), and slugging percentage (.703), will return to the lineup on Tuesday. His recent form is impeccable, with three homers in his last two games and a batting average of .533 (16-for-30) over the past nine games.

Juan Soto’s Return to Action

Juan Soto returned after missing three games due to left forearm inflammation. Playing as the designated hitter, Soto contributed with a single and a walk. “I did my treatment earlier today and went to the cages,” Soto said. “It felt pretty good to take some hacks. We’ll see how I wake up (Tuesday).”

Boone anticipates Soto’s return to right field soon, contingent on his day-to-day recovery.

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Challenges and Performances

Anthony Rizzo is currently experiencing a slump, hitting just 1-for-29 in June and without an RBI since May 25. Boone rested Rizzo for the second consecutive day, with DJ LeMahieu stepping in at first base and securing his first RBI of the season.

The Yankees also rested closer Clay Holmes, who had pitched in three of the previous four games. Michael Tonkin stepped up, securing his first save of the year. “We were playing a little bit short tonight,” Boone noted. “It allowed other people to step up, and they did.” Boone praised Tonkin’s performance, stating, “He likes the fire. He likes the competition.”

Upcoming Pitching Matchups

The next game will feature Marcus Stroman (5-2, 3.04 ERA) for the Yankees and Brady Singer (4-2, 2.76 ERA) for the Royals. Stroman has a solid record against Kansas City, going 3-1 with a 3.00 ERA in five career starts, though he hasn’t faced them since 2019. Singer, on the other hand, has struggled against the Yankees, holding a 0-1 record with a 3.98 ERA in four starts.

Kansas City Royals Update

Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. is on an 11-game hitting streak, batting .388 (19-for-49) during this period. His performance will be crucial for the Royals as they attempt to rebound from their recent losses.

Conclusion

Aaron Boone’s strategic management of player rest and injuries is paying off for the Yankees, enabling them to maintain a strong performance despite challenges. With Aaron Judge set to return and key players like Juan Soto getting back into action, the Yankees are well-positioned to continue their winning streak against the Royals. The upcoming pitching duel between Stroman and Singer promises to be a highlight, adding to the excitement of this series.

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