'Yankees include Anthony Rizzo and Marcus Stroman in ALCS lineup'
The New York Yankees included first baseman Anthony Rizzo and right-hander Marcus Stroman on their roster for the American League Championship Series on Monday.
The Guardians also added right-hander Pedro Avila to their roster before the start of the ALCS on Monday evening in New York.
Rizzo makes his return after sustaining a fracture in two fingers from a hit-by-pitch during the second-to-last game of the regular season against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
To make room for Rizzo and Stroman, the Yankees removed first baseman Ben Rice and outfielder Duke Ellis from their roster.
The addition of Avila brings the Guardians' total number of pitchers to 13. Outfielder Angel Martinez, who was part of the ALDS roster, did not make the cut this time.
Rizzo, who is 35 years old, rejoined the Yankees on September 1st after being out for 2 and a half months due to a fractured right forearm. He had a batting average of .228 with 8 home runs and 35 RBIs in 92 games this season. Rizzo was a three-time All-Star during his time with the Chicago Cubs and has hit a total of 303 home runs in his 14-year career.
Stroman, who is 33 years old, had a record of 10-9 and an ERA of 4.31 in his first season with the Yankees. He made 29 starts and one relief appearance.
Avila, who is 27 years old, had a record of 6-1 and an ERA of 3.25 in 54 relief appearances for Cleveland and San Diego in 2024. He struck out 82 batters in 82 and 2/3 innings. The Guardians acquired Avila from the Padres in April.
