Nestor Cortes has rejoined the Yankees’ starting rotation, at least for now, but he’s open to shifting to a bullpen role if needed during the postseason. This follows his first relief outing since 2021, where he delivered 4 ⅓ no-hit innings to close out a win over the Cubs after Clarke Schmidt’s start.
Nestor Cortes initially voiced his displeasure at being moved out of the rotation, citing his consistent performance and self-identification as a “workhorse” starter. As he questioned the decision, and Yankees manager Aaron Boone replied to Cortes’ frustration in a bossy manner.
“Obviously I was upset,” Nestor Cortes told following the Yankees’ 2-0 win at Wrigley Field. “I felt like I’ve been, amongst all the starters, the workhorse here. Once Cole went down [in spring training], they picked me to be the Opening Day starter — not necessarily the No. 1, but the Opening Day starter. I had to switch my routine there.”
“I don’t need everyone to be happy with everything,” Boone replied on Sunday morning. “I want them wanting and expecting the best. Difficult decisions have to be made, and then it’s on all of us, the players, to go out there, do your job, and be a pro. That’s what we saw with Nestor on Saturday.”
Set to start against the Boston Red Sox on Thursday in New York, Nestor Cortes is now part of the Yankees’ strategy to fine-tune their rotation heading into the postseason. Despite his initial reaction, He has accepted that he might have to alternate between starting and relieving as October nears.
Reflecting on the situation, Nestor Cortes admitted his initial disappointment but stressed his commitment to helping the team win in any capacity. While he prefers starting, he expressed his readiness to pitch in relief for a couple of innings if that’s what the Yankees need.
“I’m happy I’m able to do it,” he said as the Yankees beat the Royals 4-3. “I know I was a little [ticked] off about it, but that’s in the past. My goal has always been to win, no matter where I’m at. Whatever helps this team win, I’m gonna do. Of course I’d rather start, but if it winds up I’m coming in for two or three innings, so be it.”
Nestor Cortes must compete to get Yankees rotation duty
The Yankees currently have a crowded rotation with six capable starters, including Schmidt, Luis Gil, Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Marcus Stroman, and Nestor Cortes.
Boone indicated that the team will evaluate their options as they prepare for the playoffs, hinting that one or two more starters could transition to the bullpen. He acknowledged that the effectiveness of these pitchers in relief roles remains to be seen.
“We might pull another guy out or even two,” the Yankees manager told. “We’ll consider all that. You’re not sure how many of them would play down there [in the pen] or not.”
Nestor Cortes has showcased his versatility as both a starter and reliever, though the Yankees have yet to clarify his long-term role. He acknowledged that his ability to excel in both capacities offers the team valuable flexibility, but it also leaves his future uncertain.
“There hasn’t been any conversations with me about whether I’m going to stay [in the rotation],” Nestor Cortes said. “I guess it’s a blessing and a curse for me because I’ve done it already and they know I’m capable of doing it.”
This season, Nestor Cortes has had mixed outcomes as a starter. He put together three quality starts before struggling against the Cardinals on September 1. However, he rebounded with an impressive relief performance against the Cubs in Chicago, where he entered the game knowing Schmidt’s pitch count would be limited due to his recent injury.
Maintaining his routine since that bullpen appearance, Nestor Cortes sees his adaptability as a key asset, especially in high-stakes scenarios. He remains confident in his ability to adjust, drawing on his extensive experience in both roles.
Reflecting on last year’s postseason, where he made three starts and allowed six runs over 12 innings with the Yankees losing two of those games, Nestor Cortes emphasized his resilience and readiness to perform under pressure. He remains committed to embracing any assignment, whether on the mound as a starter or in relief.
“I’m always going to grind,’’ he said. “And I thrive under pressure, so whatever they want to do is fine.”
At 29, Nestor Cortes exhibits a team-first mentality, prioritizing the Yankees’ success over his personal preference for starting. His willingness to adapt could be crucial as the Yankees navigate the final weeks of the season and look ahead to the playoffs, where his flexibility could be an asset in pivotal moments.
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