Carlos Rodon gets brutally honest about Yankees expectations: ‘I’ve worked hard to get better’
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Follow UsCarlos Rodon will take the ball as the New York Yankees’ Opening Day starter for the 2025 season, stepping into the role after Gerrit Cole’s injury. Now entering the third season of his six-year, $162 million contract, Carlos Rodon spoke with YES Network about the opportunity.
“It’s an honor. I’m excited. I just want to go out and win the game.”
This will be Carlos Rodon’s second career Opening Day start, with his first coming in 2019 with the Chicago White Sox. Despite the significance of the moment, he’s keeping his approach simple.
“At the end of the day, it’s just another baseball game. You don’t want to put too much pressure on yourself.”
A crucial year ahead
Heading into spring training, expectations for Carlos Rodon were mixed. Analysts questioned whether he could bounce back from his inconsistent first two seasons with the Yankees, and some viewed 2025 as a make-or-break year for him. Talking Yanks projected that if Carlos Rodon could maintain his best form, he would emerge as a true No. 2 starter behind Gerrit Cole. However, there were concerns about his ability to consistently execute his fastball, which had been less effective since arriving in New York.
With Cole sidelined for the season, Carlos Rodon now has the opportunity to prove himself as a top arm in the rotation. His performance in 2025 will be critical in determining whether he can live up to the massive contract the Yankees gave him.
Carlos Rodon’s first season with the Yankees in 2023 was a struggle, but in 2024, he found his form, finishing with a 3.96 ERA and 195 strikeouts over 175 innings. Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Carlos Rodon for adapting his approach and incorporating a stronger mix of secondary pitches, rather than relying solely on his fastball-slider combination.
Carlos Rodon acknowledged the challenges but is confident in his ability to take the next step.
“Last year was a journey, no doubt—some ups and downs. But I’ve worked hard to get better, and I’m ready for this challenge.”
Carlos Rodon also spoke about the electric atmosphere of Yankee Stadium, saying there’s nothing like pitching in the Bronx.
“It’s the Bronx. It’s Yankee Stadium. There’s nothing like it.”
While his 2023 season was a disappointment, Carlos Rodon is determined to prove himself in 2025.
“I know what the expectations are, and I embrace them.”
What’s next for Carlos Rodon?
Carlos Rodon’s Opening Day start on March 27 against the Milwaukee Brewers will be a major test as he takes on a leadership role in the rotation. With Max Fried, Marcus Stroman, Clarke Schmidt, and Will Warren rounding out the staff, the Yankees are counting on Carlos Rodon to step up in Gerrit Cole’s absence.
“My job is to pitch, compete, and help this team win. That’s what I’m here to do.”
Carlos Rodon knows the pressure is on, but he’s embracing it—and the Yankees are hoping he delivers.
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