New York Yankees right-hander Luis Gil displayed promising signs in his spring training outing on Saturday, showcasing progress in his recovery from Tommy John surgery.
While notching three strikeouts in two innings, Luis Gil also issued two walks across 41 pitches as the Yankees beat the Tiger 22-10 in their first spring training game. Notably, his average fastball velocity reached 96.4 mph, with a peak of 98 mph. These figures offer a positive glimpse into his development as he continues his rehabilitation journey following surgery in 2022.
Luis Gil, who impressed prior to the surgery, demonstrated a repertoire that aligns with his earlier potential. The Yankees will undoubtedly be encouraged by his performance and closely monitor his progress throughout spring training.
Luis Gil returns with once upon a time stuff
In 2021, Luis Gil burst onto the scene in epic fashion to commence his Yankee career. Over his first 15+2⁄3 big league innings, the touted prospect surrendered nary a run – the longest scoreless streak from a debut Bomber hurler since 1961. Moreover, the pitcher etched his name into league annals as the first MLB pitcher ever to submit scoreless starting efforts over his first trio of appearances.
On Saturday, he showed a glimpse of that form. Luis Gil expressed, through an interpreter at Joker Marchant Stadium, that he believes his current velocity and movement had improved compared to before. According to him, his fastball, which previously averaged 96.8 mph pre-surgery, is better now due to the collective efforts put in during the offseason and post-injury period. Additionally, the Yankees pitcher emphasized that the ongoing work remains essential. Despite this, he conveyed contentment with the current velocity and movement.
Following his promising spring training outing, Luis Gil adds depth to the New York Yankees’ starting pitching corps, potentially slotting in behind the established top-five starters. His repertoire and velocity suggest the potential for a future bullpen role as well, where his ability to generate strikeouts could be further amplified.
However, consistent command remains crucial for Luis Gil’s development. Maintaining control and minimizing walks will be key to his success regardless of whether he competes as a starter or reliever. The Yankees will likely monitor his strike-throwing efficiency closely throughout spring training and beyond.
Luis Gil explained that when he walks someone, it usually occurs because he attempts to be overly precise with his pitches, aiming for a specific spot rather than considering the entire strike zone. Recognizing this pattern and being mindful of the counts he faces, he believes, improves his chances of success.
Aaron Boone remarked that Luis Gil possesses ample pitching arsenal, implying there’s no need to amplify its effectiveness when already ahead in the count. He concluded that it was a positive outing for Luis, marking a significant step in his comeback, and providing a foundation to progress from.
Boone suggested that in the second inning, Luis Gil’s efforts to be excessively precise, particularly when he had the advantage in the count, might have contributed to his struggles. This led to him issuing two walks and conceding a two-run homer.
What do you think? Leave your comment below.
Very encouraging start, especially in the velocity & movement shown on his pitches this early in spring training, unless he played winter ball recently; but even if he did, still impressive.
I would love to see the Yankees have Mo Rivera work with Gil on a cutter. Gil’s velocity is reminiscent of Mo’s velocity when he first came up.
Good luck, Gil, on continuing to progress in your recovery & in attaining your MLB dreams with the Yankees.