Right-handed pitcher Michael King has been the New York Yankees’ standout reliever this season. In over 40 appearances, he has posted a 2.91 ERA with 77 strikeouts. The 28-year-old, who had been a starter throughout his minor league career, adjusted well into the bullpen role. However, the club’s recent pitching woes have put King in an unusual spot.
Last week, Yankees manager Aaron Boone hinted at using Michael King in different roles as the team fell short on starters. Injuries to Nestor Cortes and Carlos Rodon created a void in the rotation. And Boone thought of using the bullpen as cover. While King has so far stood out in each role, the uncertainty may create a sense of imbalance. But apparently, the reliever isn’t complaining.
Michael King Trusts Aaron Boone, Ready To Adjust Into Any Role
This season has been one of a kind for right-handed pitcher Michael King. While the Yankees are collapsing on one end, King is rising from the ashes on the other side. This year, King has been a starter, reliever, closer, and late-inning reliever. Recently, manager Aaron Boone promoted him to the opener’s role, which he, unsurprisingly, aced. However, the pitcher was then moved back to the bullpen. That raises a question as to what is King’s actual role. It’s tricky, says Boone. The skipper said that the dynamics are changing constantly as they expect Carlos Rodon to be back by next week.
Hence, for now, the team does not have a set plan. They will continue to stretch him out, and his role will remain fluid for the next week. Having said that, Michael King isn’t complaining at all. He had a conversation with Aaron Boone prior to Wednesday’s game vs. Braves. King said that the team is taking it day by day, and for now, he is doing everything the skipper is asking him to do. He trusts Boone to put him in the right spots. The pitcher added that one must be flexible when it comes to major league pitching. You cannot make excuses when you fail in a certain role. The world of the major league is demanding, and each thrower must stay on their toes all the time. After all, a flexible and versatile pitcher is always valuable for any team.
Yankees Reliever To Fulfill Long-Withstanding Dream
Meanwhile, Michael King is set to fulfill his long-lost dream of becoming a starter. To those unversed, King had been a starter for the most part of his minor league career. But with the Yankees, he had to adjust and settle into the bullpen. Not anymore. As the Yanks are undergoing a rotation crisis for the moment owing to incessant injuries, King could be up for a promotion.
Last week, Michael King opened for the Yankees and put up an impressive show. He managed to impress manager Aaron Boone, who is now considering utilizing him in the starters role. Boone has already launched his plan as he is stretching the reliever out to increase his workload. If all things go well, Michael King can officially become a major league starter.
