The 2025 Major League Baseball season is about to begin, and the New York Yankees have designated left-hander Carlos Rodon as their starter for the opening game against the Milwaukee Brewers on March 27 at Yankee Stadium.
This decision follows the confirmed absence of Gerrit Cole, who will miss the entire season due to Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.
The rise of Rodón
Carlos Rodon, 32, is in the third year of a six-year, $162 million contract with the Yankees.
After an injury-plagued 2023 season and a below-expectation performance, Rodon made a remarkable recovery in 2024.
He registered a record of 16 wins and 9 losses, with an effectiveness of 3.96 in 32 starts, accumulating 195 strikeouts in 175 innings pitched.
Opening Day
This will be the second time Carlos Rodon has assumed the role of starter on an Opening Day; the first was in 2019 with the Chicago White Sox.
Carlos Rodón is in the third year of a six-year contract
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Manager Aaron Boone expressed confidence in Rodon to lead the rotation in Cole’s absence.
Carlos Rodón expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, emphasizing his commitment to start the season with a win for the team.
Rotation adjustments
Cole’s injury has forced the Yankees to restructure their starting rotation.
Max Fried, recently acquired from the Atlanta Braves, is scheduled to open the second game of the season.
The rotation will also include Marcus Stroman, Clarke Schmidt and Will Warren.
The ability of these pitchers to adapt and perform will be crucial to keeping the team competitive in the demanding American League East Division.
Challenges and expectations
Buzzy
The absence of Gerrit Cole presents a significant challenge for the Yankees.
However, the organization is confident that Carlos Rodón and the rest of the rotation can assume greater responsibilities.
Rodón’s experience and talent will be essential to lead the team in this transition period.
In addition, his recent addition of a changeup to his repertoire has shown promising results during spring training, which could add a new dimension to his ability to strike out batters.
U.S. Hispanic fans will be watching Rodon’s development and his impact on the Yankees’ World Series aspirations.
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