Every MLB team has an ideal lineup, that when everyone is fully healthy, they would unleash the most fury on an opposing pitching staff. The 2019 New York Yankees never were able to throw out their “optimal” starting nine, yet still managed to reach Game Six of the ALCS.
Injuries, unsung heroes, and some coaching decisions led to a plethora of different New York lineups, so many so, that by the time the Yankees suited up for their final game in Houston, only four players remained from the Opening Day group. To put things in perspective, DJ LeMahieu, who wound up being the best Yankees hitter, was viewed as a platoon player on Opening Day.