The New York Yankees entered the season with uncertainties surrounding their starting pitching. However, their rotation has become a driving force behind their 26-14 record, despite their ace being sidelined due to injury.
Gerrit Cole, who led the league in various pitching categories last season, including ERA, innings pitched, WHIP, and hits per nine innings, has been sidelined for the entire year due to elbow inflammation experienced during spring training.
In Cole’s absence, the team has leaned on veterans like Nestor Cortes, Carlos Rodón, and Marcus Stroman, as well as emerging talents Luis Gil and Clarke Schmidt. While Cortes, Rodón, and Stroman battled injuries last season, Gil underwent Tommy John surgery and Schmidt’s performance in 2023 was average. Consequently, there was speculation that the Yankees would pursue pitching acquisitions during the offseason.
While none of the replacements can match Cole’s level of performance, all five pitchers have surpassed expectations. Cortes, Rodón, and Stroman have posted ERAs in the mid-to-high threes, with Schmidt delivering a standout performance against the Tampa Bay Rays, maintaining a 2.95 ERA. Gil has been particularly impressive with a 2.92 ERA, although he leads MLB in walks.
Remarkably, none of these pitchers have missed a start this season, collectively covering 39 out of the team’s 40 games. As a unit, the starting rotation boasts a 3.36 ERA and ranks second in MLB with 225 strikeouts.
