The New York Yankees’ World Series Game 2 loss to the Dodgers is largely due to Carlos Rodon‘s failure. He gave up four runs in just 3.1 innings before making an early exit but not before putting the Yankees in a hole that they failed to get out of.
However, after the loss, the Yankees pitcher pointed to something that raised questions about the team’s preparedness. While Rodon was addressing his Game 2 outing, the SNY reporter inquired about a blister he had developed on his finger. The blister appeared to contribute to his struggles that ultimately doomed the Yankees.
Rodon downplayed the impact of the blister, noting it was his first issue with a blister this season but something he has managed in the past. He assured reporters that he expects it won’t interfere with any future World Series appearances. “I’ve had it before,” he said, “Not a big deal.”
However, he pitched on Saturday with a blister on his finger, and it certainly contributed to his loss of command and control.
Gerrit Cole to start Yankees’ Game 4?
The Yankees have not considered or discussed starting Gerrit Cole on short rest for Game 4 of the World Series, even if the team faces elimination, according to sources.
New York’s rotation strategy—outlined at the beginning of the series by SNY—has consistently listed Cole, Carlos Rodon, Clarke Schmidt, and Luis Gil in order. Manager Aaron Boone reaffirmed this plan on Saturday afternoon, officially naming Gil as the Game 4 starter.
Though the Yankees currently trail the Dodgers 2-0 in the series, sources say the option to bring back Cole on reduced rest remains unexamined. While not entirely ruling out the idea, the team is not actively considering it as part of their current strategy. Cole has pitched on short rest only once before: Game 5 of the 2020 ALDS against Tampa Bay, where he allowed just one run over 5.1 innings and struck out nine.
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