Carlos Rodon’s arrival in the New York Yankees will go down in history as one of the worst debut seasons by a newcomer. Since signing the six-year $162 million contract in the off-season, nothing has gone right for the left-handed pitcher. Right from spring training, injuries have come raining down on the southpaw.
Carlos Rodon missed the initial three months of his debut season in pinstripes due to forearm strain and chronic back issues. After grueling rehab sessions, the pitcher was able to take the mound in July. However, the excitement slowly transformed into dismay as Rodon’s pitches landed deep into the stands. To make matters worse, the pitcher has dealt with yet another injury that will keep him out for two weeks.
Yankees Place Carlos Rodon On 15-Day IL With Low-Grade Hamstring Injury
On Sunday, Carlos Rodon shelled out five runs in 2.2 innings pitched against the Houston Astros. Shortly after, he felt discomfort in his hips as manager Aaron Boone accompanied by a trainer, rushed in for treatment. After a lengthy delay, Rodon exited the game, which was not welcomed by the fans, who gave Rodon a hostile reception. After the game, the Yankees announced that the pitcher had to exit the game on Sunday due to hamstring tightness and will be monitored over the next 24 hours. Subsequently, the southpaw underwent an MRI test which revealed a low-grade hamstring strain. On Monday, the Yanks formally placed Carlos Rodon on a 15-day IL.
At this point, it shouldn’t come as a surprise. The Yankees have adopted an excessively cautious approach with its injured players this season. In fact, Carlos Rodon admitted to being fine shortly after his exit on Sunday. Moreover, Rodon said his premature ejection was just a precautionary measure. Still, the Yanks decided to place him on IL to avoid further aggravation. Having said that, Rodon’s debut season has been the worst in MLB. In six starts, his ERA is as high as 7.33, which is six worst in MLB for out of all starters who’ve thrown at least 20 innings this year. While his absence won’t make much of a difference, it would certainly limit the rotation options for the Yankee management going forward in the tournament.
Yanks In A Fix As Rotation Collapses With injuries And Inconsistency
Meanwhile, Carlos Rodon’s injury has left the Yankees in a deep conundrum. They are short on starters. Earlier, Aaron Boone planned on scarping Luis Severino’s start as his ERA soared to 7.74. However, with Rodon’s exit, Severino earned a new life and will undoubtedly step in for at least a couple of starts. However, if the Bombers choose to get away with Severino, Randy Vasquez remains their best bet. In three starts this season, he has an impressive 1.17 ERA.
All things said and done, the New York Yankees have slipped back to the last spot on the AL-East table following a horrendous loss to Chicago White Sox. With less than two months to go into the season, the Bronx Bombers remain on the brink of playoff elimination. If so happens, it would be the first time since 2016 the postseason of MLB will be played without the mighty Yankees.