The New York Yankees’ pitching staff faced a significant setback when ace Gerrit Cole was ruled out for the 2025 season due to a right elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery.
This unexpected development left a void in the rotation, prompting questions about how the team would maintain its competitive edge.
In the absence of Cole, left-handed pitcher Carlos Rodon has emerged as the de facto ace, stepping into a leadership role that has tested his resilience and skill.
Rodon, who had a challenging 2023 season after joining the Yankees on a six-year, $162 million contract, faced heightened expectations following Cole’s injury.
Despite the pressure, Rodon has remained focused and composed. He acknowledged the difficulty of losing Cole but emphasized the importance of moving forward.
Rodon steps up to the plate
“It’s just one of those things,” Rodon said. “Obviously, it’s tough not having Gerrit this year. And I mean, so what could have been this year with him? You know, where would we be now? But that’s so hindsight, and that’s behind us.”
This mindset reflects Rodon’s commitment to the team’s success, regardless of individual circumstances. He added, “It doesn’t change my mindset,” he said. “You do your job.”
Rodon’s approach has been instrumental in stabilizing the Yankees’ rotation. His performance on the mound has been impressive, with several standout outings. Notably, on April 18, he delivered six shutout innings against the Tampa Bay Rays, striking out nine batters and allowing only two hits in a 1-0 victory.
Just over a week later, on April 29, Rodon flirted with perfection through five innings against the Baltimore Orioles, finishing with seven strikeouts across six dominant frames. His fastball velocity has been consistently high, topping out at 97 mph, and his command has been sharp, demonstrating his readiness to lead the rotation.
In a game against the Oakland Athletics on May 10, Rodon struck out 10 batters over six innings, showcasing his ability to dominate opposing lineups. This performance highlighted his growth and adaptation to the increased responsibilities placed upon him.
Embracing his leadership role
Rodon’s emergence as the Yankees’ ace has been characterized by his leadership both on and off the field. He has taken on the role of a mentor to younger pitchers, sharing insights and experiences to help them navigate the pressures of Major League Baseball.
His dedication to the team’s success is evident in his preparation and approach to each game. Rodon’s ability to maintain composure under pressure has been a stabilizing force for the Yankees during a challenging period.
While Rodon’s performances have been commendable, the Yankees recognize the importance of continued support from the entire pitching staff. With Cole’s absence, other pitchers have stepped up to contribute to the team’s success. The collective effort of the rotation has been crucial in keeping the Yankees competitive in the American League East.
As the season progresses, the Yankees will continue to rely on Rodon’s leadership and performance to guide them through the challenges ahead. His journey from a struggling pitcher to the team’s ace serves as a testament to his resilience and commitment to the game. With Rodon leading the way, the Yankees remain hopeful for a successful season despite the adversity they have faced.
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