New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone has chosen Alex Verdugo as the starting left fielder for Game 1 of the ALDS against the Kansas City Royals, despite calls from fans to play promising prospect Jasson Dominguez. Verdugo has had a disappointing season with a .233 batting average, yet Boone believes his playoff experience will be crucial. Dominguez, who has struggled with a .179 average in limited play, remains a long-term option for the team. Meanwhile, rookie catcher Austin Wells will keep his cleanup spot in the lineup despite a poor September, as Boone expresses confidence in his overall performance this season. The Yankees are aiming to break a 15-year World Series drought, relying on their powerful lineup led by stars Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. Boone's decisions reflect a strategy of maximizing experience and stability for the postseason challenges ahead.