The New York Yankees were forced to launch a late hunt for a fifth starter after ace Gerrit Cole was shut down due to an elbow inflammation injury. While Cole remains sidelined for the next 10-12 weeks, the Bronx Bombers have to make a decision on a fifth starter in the next week. Meanwhile, here are four pitchers who are touted as front runners for the job.
Clayton Beeter
Top prospect Clayton Beeter is currently leading the race to become the New York Yankees’ fifth starter for the 2024 MLB season. In his Double-A and Triple-A career, the pitcher posted a 3.62 ERA in 131.2 innings with 165 strikeouts. Not only that, the starter ranks 14th in the Yanks Top-30 prospects list for the impending season. Having said that, despite limited professional experience, Beeter’s talent and upside make him a compelling option for the fifth starter role, especially if he can continue to develop and sharpen his skills at the major league level.
Luis Gil
Luis Gil, another promising prospect within the Yankees’ organization, has garnered attention for his electric stuff, high-velocity fastball, and devastating breaking pitches. At just 23 years of age, Gil has a 3.07 ERA in 6 starts, out of which he didn’t allow a single run in three successive starts. Not only that, Gil’s overall performance in the minor leagues has been impressive. Therefore, the Bronx Bombers may look to him to provide a spark in the starting rotation if he can translate his success to the major league level.
Luke Weaver
Luke Weaver, a seasoned veteran with previous major league experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Weaver returned to Bronx on a 1-year, $2 million contract earlier this off-season. While Weaver has faced his share of challenges in recent years, he has the potential to rebound and contribute effectively as a starter for the Yankees. He has the tools to deceive batters and could come handy as a short term replacement as fifth starter.
Will Warren
New York Yankees’ no.1 pitching prospect, Will Warren, is another leading candidate to grab the fifth starter’s job this season. He impressed the management staff in the spring and is slated to debut sometime this year. He finished with a 3.35 ERA in 129 innings between Double-A and Triple-A last year. Gerrit Cole’s injury could be a blessing in disguise for Warren, whose major league promotion could be fast-tracked if the management deems him fit enough for major leagues.
Dennis Santana
Dennis Santana, another intriguing option, offers versatility as both a starter and a reliever. His ability to pitch multiple innings and fill various roles could give him an edge in the competition for the fifth starter spot, especially if the Yankees prioritize flexibility and depth in their rotation. Santana finished with a 5.91 ERA across nine starts with the Mets last year. But regardless, Dennis Santana has the tools to step into the fifth starter’s shoes for the Bronx Bombers on a short-term leash.
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