ATLANTA — Will Warren’s frustration may have created another headache for the New York Yankees’ already-depleted pitching staff.
The right-hander’s difficult outing against Atlanta on Saturday took an alarming turn in the dugout. After getting roughed up on the mound, Warren returned to the bench and struck the roof’s underside with his fist. YES Network cameras captured the impulsive moment that could spell trouble for the Yankees.
Will Warren was later spotted examining and shaking his hand. The action has raised concerns about possible self-inflicted injury. The Yankees desperately need healthy arms after losing Gerrit Cole for the season and Clarke Schmidt to Tommy John surgery. Another rotation setback — especially a preventable one — would be devastating.
Luis Gil’s return takes on greater urgency
Warren’s potential injury makes Luis Gil’s comeback even more critical. The defending American League Rookie of the Year continues advancing through his rehabilitation assignment. The Yankees appear ready to fast-track his return to the majors.
Gil delivered another solid performance Friday with Double-A Somerset. He struck out seven batters while allowing two runs over 3 1/3 innings. His pitch count reached 57 throws, up from his previous outing. Of those pitches, 39 found the strike zone.
Manager Aaron Boone reviewed the start and praised Gil’s progress.
“Stuff was good, decent command,” Boone said Saturday. “More importantly, another step and kind of building that pitch count into 57 pitches.”
Gil’s next scheduled appearance comes on Wednesday with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He is expected to throw approximately 65 pitches. A successful outing could lead to an immediate major league return.
Yankees rotation reels under setbacks
New York’s rotation has crumbled since June despite beginning the season without ace Gerrit Cole. Schmidt’s UCL tear earlier this month ended his 2025 campaign. The injury likely sidelines him for most of 2026 as well.
Rookie right-hander Cam Schlittler developed upper arm soreness and remains questionable for next week’s Toronto series. The Yankees are running dangerously low on viable starting options.
Boone expressed optimism that both Max Fried and Schlittler could return for the Toronto series. Fried has battled blister problems while Schlittler deals with his arm issue. Their availability remains uncertain as Tuesday and Wednesday assignments loom.
Gil’s velocity provides encouragement
Gil’s minor league performances suggest he could provide more than temporary relief. His fastball has impressed evaluators during rehabilitation starts.
“I think the fastball is playing,” Boone said after reviewing Gil’s latest outing. “He’s getting to where he wants it.”
Gil’s heater reportedly sat around 95 mph and peaked at 97 mph. The velocity demonstrates the “jump” Boone believes can succeed at the major league level. Gil posted a 15-7 record with a 3.50 ERA last season. He struck out 171 batters over 151 2/3 innings before suffering a right lat strain in spring training.
Given the Yankees’ desperate need for innings, Gil’s return could prove essential rather than merely helpful.
Trade market offers limited options
Even with Gil’s anticipated return, general manager Brian Cashman recognizes the need for additional reinforcements. The Yankees require multiple pitching upgrades before the trade deadline.
New York has deployed scouts to evaluate potential targets across baseball. They’ve examined players from the Twins, Pirates, Orioles, Diamondbacks, Reds, Rockies, and Braves organizations.
“Whether it’s bullpen guys or starting pitchers, it’s just all of it. That’s the area,” Cashman said earlier this month. “We have people that are capable, but I think it also needs to get some help.”
The challenge involves widespread competition for limited assets. Nearly every contender seeks similar pitching upgrades.
One rival American League evaluator noted the market dynamics: “There’s about 20 teams, it seems, looking for the same things.”
Teams are pursuing starters, relievers, and third base help. The Yankees face a rare combination of needs for a roster that once appeared deep.
Warren’s condition remains unknown
Whether Warren actually injured himself remains unclear. But the timing could not be worse for the Yankees’ pitching situation. A pitcher potentially harming himself out of frustration while the rotation struggles adds pressure to an already stressed front office.
The incident also increases urgency around Gil’s rehabilitation timeline. The Yankees can no longer afford a conservative approach to his return. Every potential start carries heightened importance as July 31 approaches and the AL East race intensifies.
If Gil can return within 10 days and replicate last season’s production, he would do more than stabilize the staff. He might save the entire rotation from complete collapse.
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