The Yankees' elite starting pitching staff faces a dilemma with Cy Young candidate Luis Gil's potential surprise demotion to the bullpen, as Gerrit Cole's return may lead to an overcrowded rotation.

By the Numbers
  • The team's starters are 23-11, with a collective ERA of 2.85.
  • Yankees rank No. 2 in batting average allowed by a starting staff and No. 5 in WHIP.
  • Gil boasts a 2.11 ERA, 11.39 strikeouts per nine innings, and a WHIP of 1.01.
  • He holds a .143 batting average against him, ranking him as one of the best pitchers in the league.
Yes, But

The decision to potentially demote Gil despite his stellar performance raises concerns about disrupting the team's successful rotation and the impact on his development.

State of Play
  • Aaron Boone faces the unexpected problem of excess starters as Cole's return nears.
  • Veteran analysts suggest different scenarios, including Gil moving to the bullpen or implementing a six-man rotation.
What's Next

The team must navigate the delicate balance of managing a surplus of quality starters while maintaining Gil's development and maximizing their pitching strength for the season.

Bottom Line

The Yankees' handling of their pitching situation, especially regarding Gil, will determine the team's success and depth in the competitive MLB landscape.