The New York Yankees starting rotation hit a speed breaker following an overwhelming start to the season. In ace Gerrit Cole’s absence, the starting pitchers embraced the challenge and exceeded expectations to contribute heavily to the team’s early season success. However, the injury bug has played spoilsport.
As the 2024 MLB season nears its business end of things, the New York Yankees have lost its second starting pitcher to injury after Clarke Schmidt. While a minor league prospect is called in as a replacement, the Yanks will be required to do some serious contemplation on the way forward, especially in the postseason when the stakes will be higher.
Luis Gil Placed On IL With A Lower Back Sprain
During the Tuesday series opener against Cleveland Guardians, the New York Yankees’ starting pitcher, Luis Gil, exited the mound early due to some discomfort in the back. The team appeared concerned, and on Wednesday, the pitcher was placed on 10-day IL with a lower back sprain. Top prospect Will Warren has been recalled as an immediate replacement in the starting rotation. That being said, Yankee manager Aaron Boone does not expect the layoff to be brief. Moreover, the skipper is committed to accommodating Gil back to the starter’s role upon return from IL despite his workload concerns. Gil’s already pitched a career-high 124.2 innings as a full-time starter after coming from a Tommy John surgery.
However, Aaron Boone says moving Luis Gil to the bullpen is easier said than done. “He’s had a really strong year in the rotation, and it’s not as simple as throwing him in the pen,” Boone told the media. Moreover, the Yankees skipper’s conundrum will increase when Clarke Schmidt becomes eligible for activation from lat strain. The pitcher is all set to commence his rehab assignment with Double-A Somerset Patriots this week and is also an ideal contender for a postseason slot. Having said that, the New York Yankees manager intends to focus on the present and not worry about the playoffs. The idea momentarily is to get both Gil and Schmidt back healthy for the final stretch of the season. Any depth in the pitching staff at this stage is welcomed. For now, Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Marcus Stroman, Nestor Cortes, and Will Warren will serve as the starting rotation.
Anthony Rizzo, Clarke Schmidt Set To Play Minor League Rehab Games!
Entering Wednesday, the New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone announced rehab assignments for first baseman Anthony Rizzo and starting pitcher Clarke Schmidt. Both the injured players will feature for Double-A Somerset Patriots this weekend. While Rizzo will play as DH, Schmidt will pitch a maximum of 50 pitches.
It still unclear as to how many rehab games will Clarke Schmidt have to undergo to be eligible for a return to majors. However, the pitcher is feeling healthy and does not expect a long stint in the minors. Overall, both players return from IL by the end August is not ruled out as Yankees embark on their final playoff push.
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