The New York Yankees have confirmed Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon as their starting pitchers for the first two games of the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium, a decision widely anticipated. Cole will take the mound for Game 1, followed by Rodon in Game 2.
What remains undecided is the starter for Game 3, which will take place on the road. The choice is between Clarke Schmidt and Luis Gil, but that decision will likely hinge on how the series unfolds after the first two games.
Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake emphasized that the team’s strategy is fluid and will be influenced by the outcome of Game 1. Both Schmidt and Gil are prepared to contribute from the bullpen in support of Cole during the series opener, regardless of whether the Yankees face the Orioles or Royals. The same flexibility applies for Game 2 behind Rodon, allowing the Yankees to hold off naming a Game 3 starter until after Monday.
The series schedule offers some advantages. With a built-in off day after Saturday’s opener, Game 2 is set for Monday and Game 3 for Wednesday. This setup provides an opportunity for Cole to return on regular rest if a Game 4 is necessary, while Rodon could start a decisive Game 5, should it come to that.
The Yankees’ approach reflects their plan to adapt their pitching rotation as the series progresses, aiming to maximize the use of their top starters in critical moments.
Schmidt vs. Gil: The best Yankees option for ALDS Game 3
The Yankees are keeping their options open for the Game 3 starter in the ALDS, with Luis Gil and Clarke Schmidt both under consideration. Schmidt has more experience in relief, but Gil has been the more consistent starter since returning from a three-month injury absence with a strained lat muscle.
Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake discussed the potential roles for both pitchers, highlighting Schmidt’s versatility. Blake sees Schmidt as a reliable option for either high-leverage, single-inning relief or longer multiple-inning stints, emphasizing his ability to adapt to various game situations.
Gil, on the other hand, presents more uncertainty in a relief role. Blake acknowledged that the rookie hasn’t been tested in such situations, and using him out of the bullpen carries some risks. The team is weighing those concerns against the potential upside of Gil’s electric fastball, which consistently hits 97 mph and could be even more effective in shorter appearances.
The Yankees are also debating the overall makeup of their pitching staff for the ALDS, including whether to add Marcus Stroman to the roster. While Stroman’s inclusion remains undecided, Blake noted that the veteran pitcher could provide value as a long reliever, especially against right-handed hitters.
As the Yankees finalize their postseason roster, they are clearly focused on maintaining flexibility and balancing the strengths and risks associated with each pitcher’s role. This approach will allow them to adapt as needed during the series.
Yankees’ bullpen gets in shape
The Yankees are hopeful that Jake Cousins will secure a spot on the ALDS roster, contingent on a successful live batting practice session scheduled for Thursday. Manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism regarding Cousins’ current readiness.
Clarke Schmidt, on the other hand, brings postseason experience, although limited to relief appearances. He’s been a reliable starter this season, with a 2.85 ERA across 16 starts. Schmidt’s consistency and ability to handle big moments have made him a strong candidate for a starting role in the postseason.
Schmidt expressed his readiness to contribute in any role the Yankees assign, emphasizing the “all hands on deck” mentality that playoff baseball demands. He’s prepared to step up, whether as a starter or reliever, to help the team succeed.
The decision between Gil and Schmidt for Game 3 will likely come down to their recent performances, postseason experience, and overall workload throughout the season. This choice will be crucial in shaping the Yankees’ strategy not only for the immediate series but for potential future games as well.
Stroman’s playoff roster spot in jeopardy
The New York Yankees are still weighing decisions on their playoff roster, with Marcus Stroman‘s inclusion uncertain as the team finalizes its postseason lineup. During a media session Tuesday, manager Aaron Boone addressed Stroman’s potential role but gave no definitive answer, signaling that discussions are ongoing.
Stroman, who transitioned to a bullpen role after Clarke Schmidt returned from injury, is not assured a spot on the playoff roster. If he is included, it’s likely he’ll pitch in relief.
Stroman’s regular-season numbers include 30 appearances, a 10-9 record, a 4.31 ERA, and 113 strikeouts over 154.2 innings. His last playoff experience came in 2016 with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he started five games, going 1-1 with a 4.40 ERA in 30.2 innings.
Boone also provided updates on players like Alex Verdugo, Jasson Dominguez, DJ LeMahieu, and Anthony Rizzo as the team prepares for the 2024 postseason. The Yankees face decisions on the pitching staff size and bench configuration as they are ready for their ALDS matchup against either the Kansas City Royals or Baltimore Orioles. Kansas City took Game 1 in their Wild Card series.
With final roster choices still pending, the Yankees are considering every angle to ensure they’re set for the challenges of October baseball.
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“the veteran pitcher could provide value as a long reliever, especially against right-handed hitters.”
What a dumb comment, if you are going to be a long reliever than it wouldn’t be “especially against right-handed hitters”.
SMH……