The New York Yankees stare at an incomplete starting rotation amid heavy injury concerns within the camp.
New York Yankees’ never-ending tale of injury concerns has always jeopardized their World Series dream. Just for example, last season, the Bombers lost the majority of their inform starters to injuries in the postseason, which led to their ouster in the ALCS. Moreover, the situation is way far from getting better this season as well since the injury bug has taken over the bullpen.
Before the start of opening day, eight key players of the New York Yankees landed on the injury list, including three-fifth of the pitching rotation. Hence, the Yanks now lack a fifth starter as Gerrit Cole and Nestor Cortes remain the only two notable healthy pitchers in the camp presently. While Clarke Schmidt and Domingo German are doing their best to fill up the lineup, one minor league prospect can do wonders if given a chance.
Jhony Brito Could Be A Better Fifth Starter Than Schmidt Or German
27-year-old pitcher Jhony Brito made an unexpected debut for the New York Yankees in the second game of the season. Brito was promoted due to a lack of starters on the roster. And he did more than just a good job. He pitched five shutout innings and registered six strikeouts. Moreover, his electric performance on the mound helped the Yankees take home its first series win of the season. However, despite a solid debut, Jhony was sent down to Triple-A in the minor league.
The New York Yankees are currently banking on Clarke Schmidt and Domingo German to fill up the fifth starter’s position. However, both had an average first outing and failed to impress. Hence, it wouldn’t hurt much to at least provide Jhony Brito with a couple of more starts. His changeup and sliders were almost unplayable for the Giants’ hitters, who went home scoreless. Also, the Yankees manager, Aaron Boone, affirmed that Brito had thrown his hat in contention for the fifth starting position on the roster. Hence, on any given day, Brito seems an excellent fifth-starter candidate over to the likes of Schmidt or German.
Aaron Boone Says Brito In The Mix To Be The Yankees Potential Fifth Starter
After sending Jhony Brito to the minor league, Aaron Boone explained the front office’s strange decision. He said the team does not need a fifth starter right now as they have enough options in the bullpen. Also, there isn’t room for many. However, he did not rule out Brito’s future participation. Boone added the pitcher remains in the mix to become the upcoming fifth starter of the Yankees rotation and will be called up when the team deems it necessary.
For what it’s worth, the Yankees cannot call up Jhony Brito now, even if they want to. According to MLB guidelines, a team must wait at least 15 days after sending a player to the minor league before calling him back to the bullpen. Regardless, Brito has emerged as the potential future star for the Yankees. He has shown that he has the talent and skill set to succeed at the highest level.
