Spring Training Blues: Injuries Reshape Yankees’ Pitching Plans
The New York Yankees entered spring training with what seemed like an abundance of talent in their starting rotation. However, the unpredictable nature of baseball, particularly the susceptibility of pitchers to injuries, has once again brought a sense of urgency to the team’s planning. Right-hander Luis Gil, who was the 2024 American League Rookie of the Year, is set to undergo an MRI exam on Saturday after experiencing tightness near his right shoulder during a bullpen session on Friday. Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the immediate concern, stating, "When a pitcher stops his bullpen, that’s concerning. But I also don’t want to get too far ahead. We’ll see what we have. But anytime they pull themselves from a bullpen a couple pitches in, that’s concerning."
The Five-Man Rotation Dilemma
Initially, the Yankees’ starting rotation for the 2025 season appeared solid and deep, with Gerrit Cole, free-agent addition Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt forming a powerful quintet. This lineup had seemingly pushed Marcus Stroman out of the starting staff, prompting the Yankees to explore trade options during the offseason. Stroman, who is under contract for $18 million in 2025 with a vesting option for 2026 if he pitches 140 innings, did not attract much interest due to his salary. However, with Gil now possibly sidelined for an extended period, Stroman could have a renewed opportunity to secure a spot in the rotation. This sudden shift in circumstances serves as a reminder of the fluid nature of roster management and the importance of depth in a team’s pitching staff.
Rising Talent and Young Hopefuls
In the wake of Gil’s potential absence, the Yankees have a few promising options to fill the void. Will Warren, a rookie pitcher, has been particularly impressive in spring training, throwing five scoreless innings with seven strikeouts. His strong performance has certainly not gone unnoticed and could position him as a viable candidate for the rotation. Warren’s emergence is a testament to the Yankees’ excellent scouting and player development, providing a silver lining to the otherwise disheartening news. Additionally, veteran Carlos Carrasco, who is in camp as a non-roster invitee, could step up to take the mound. Carrasco’s experience and proven track record, despite his current non-roster status, make him a valuable asset for the team.
Luis Gil’s Journey and Impact
Luis Gil, at 26 years old, has had a remarkable journey to his current status. He missed the entire 2023 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, a procedure he underwent at the end of the 2022 campaign. However, Gil’s resilience and determination paid off in 2024, where he finished with a 3.50 ERA and 171 strikeouts in 151 2/3 innings, posting a 15-7 record in 29 starts. His performance not only solidified his place in the Yankees’ rotation but also earned him the prestigious AL Rookie of the Year award. The injury that cut short his Friday bullpen session is a significant setback, and its impact on the team’s plans remains to be seen. Boone’s cautious optimism underscores the delicate balance between hope and realism in managing a pitching staff.
J.T. Brubaker’s Setback
Adding to the Yankees’ pitching woes, right-hander J.T. Brubaker has been diagnosed with three fractured ribs following an incident where he attempted to dodge a comebacker last week. Brubaker, 31, has pitched three MLB seasons, all with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His career has been marked by both promise and setbacks, including missing the past two years due to Tommy John surgery and an oblique injury. Despite his career 4.99 ERA and 324 strikeouts in 315 2/3 innings, Brubaker’s latest injury is a significant blow to the Yankees’ depth and flexibility. The team will need to carefully manage his recovery to ensure he is ready to contribute when he returns.
Navigating the Future
The Yankees’ current situation highlights the challenges of maintaining a robust pitching staff in the face of unexpected injuries. While the team initially had a surplus of starting pitchers, the sudden absence of Gil and Brubaker has shifted the focus to contingency plans and flexibility. Boone’s measured response and the potential contributions from Stroman, Warren, and Carrasco offer a glimmer of hope. The Yankees will need to stay agile and adapt their strategies to ensure they remain competitive throughout the 2025 season. The upcoming MRI results for Gil will be crucial in determining the team’s next steps, and the Yankees’ front office will undoubtedly be monitoring the situation closely.
