Yankees Might Be Setting Up Gerrit Cole Return With Latest Roster Shuffle The New York Yankees made a strategic roster adjustment on Monday that appears to signal a shift in their plans for the pitching rotation. By optioning right-handed pitcher Elmer Rodriguez to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and recalling right-hander Yovanny Cruz to the major league roster, the team is prioritizing bullpen depth over adding another starting pitcher. This move suggests the Yankees are positioning themselves to welcome Gerrit Cole back to the majors if his rehabilitation continues to progress favorably. Cruz, a 26-year-old right-hander, has emerged as a reliable option in Triple-A, posting a 3.00 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 23 strikeouts over 18 innings this season. His performance has earned him a spot in the Yankees’ active roster, where he will wear the number 96 jersey. The decision to bring him up as a reliever rather than a starter underscores the team’s focus on bolstering the bullpen, which has been stretched thin by recent demands. Cruz’s inclusion provides the Yankees with a fresh right-handed arm to address potential gaps in their relief corps, while keeping the door open for Cole’s potential return. Rodriguez, on the other hand, was sent back to Triple-A after a brief stint in the majors. The 22-year-old right-hander has struggled with command, posting a 4.15 ERA, 1.85 WHIP, and a subpar strike-throwing ability despite his solid stuff. His performance in three starts this season—six strikeouts and nine walks over 13 innings—has not met the expectations of a major league starter. By returning him to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, the Yankees are giving him an opportunity to refine his mechanics and develop as a starter rather than forcing him into an uncomfortable role in the big leagues.#yankees #yovanny_cruz #gerrit_cole #elmer_rodriguez #scrantonwilkes_barre
Yankees Feel Confident About Top Prospect Elmer Rodriguez Ahead of MLB Debut The New York Yankees have expressed confidence in their top prospect, Elmer Rodriguez, as he prepares to make his Major League Baseball debut. With the team sending left-handed pitcher Luis Gil down to the minors following a poor performance on Sunday, Rodriguez has been called up to fill the void in the starting rotation. Despite initial speculation that Carlos Rodon might take the next spot, the Yankees opted for Rodriguez, who is set to debut in Wednesday’s series finale against the Oakland Athletics. Aaron Boone, the Yankees’ manager, praised Rodriguez’s readiness for the challenge, stating, “He’s a guy we view that’s gonna have a long career. He’s coming off a phenomenal year at Double-A and a taste of Triple-A, and has gotten off to a great start there this year—he’s earned the opportunity. We feel good about him taking the ball and he’s very, very capable.” Boone’s comments reflect the organization’s belief in Rodriguez’s potential, particularly after his strong performance in the minors. Rodriguez, a 22-year-old right-handed pitcher, has made a significant impact in his first four outings at the Double-A level. He has posted a stellar 1.27 ERA and a 0.89 WHIP, striking out 20 batters while allowing just one home run. His success has been bolstered by his two strong Grapefruit League appearances and a scoreless outing with Puerto Rico during the World Baseball Classic. These performances have solidified his reputation as a promising talent ready for the next level. When asked about his mindset for the big-league debut, Rodriguez told YES Network’s Meredith Marakovitz, “It’s just the preparation.#world_baseball_classic #yankees #oakland_athletics #elmer_rodriguez #carlos_rondon
