Matt Holliday would be optimal DH tonight vs. Indians

CLEVELAND – No one on the New York Yankees roster has been a part of more postseason games than veteran Matt Holliday. In the decisive game five against the Cleveland Indians, manager Joe Girardi is faced with yet another tough, but critical decision. Holliday has not seen any action yet this postseason, but he is most deserving of the start against Corey Kluber tonight.

To put it simply, Jacoby Ellsbury and Chase Headley have been beyond horrible in the playoffs. The duo has combined to hit 0-for-18 thus far and a change has to be made at designated hitter. In Holliday’s postseason career, he is slashing .247/.305/.731 with 13 HR and 37 RBI. Over the years, he has come up clutch numerous times for his respective teams.

2007 Wild Card Tiebreaker vs. San Diego Padres:

Holliday drove in the game-tying run, as well as scored the game-winning run to send the Colorado Rockies to the NLDS. He hit 15-for-51 that postseason and led the Rockies to the World Series.

2007 World Series vs. Boston Red Sox:

After trailing 6-2 in the sixth inning, Holliday clubbed a three run home run to bring his team within a run.

2013 World Series vs. Boston Red Sox:

Jon Lester was dominating the Cardinals through four innings, until Holliday’s solo HR tied the game at 1-1.

2014 NLDS vs. Los Angeles Dodgers:

Holliday added insult to injury after putting the Cardinals ahead with a three run blast to left field.

Ultimately, Holliday is a player that won’t be fazed by the moment. He has come up clutch for the Yankees numerous times this season and the expectation should be no less for him if he plays in game five.