The New York Yankees' starting rotation is in flux, and it's a situation that has fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. With key pitchers sidelined by injuries, the question on everyone's mind is: Who will step up to fill the void? The offseason buzz centered around re-signing Cody Bellinger, but the real drama lies in piecing together a reliable pitching staff for Opening Day and beyond.
Here’s the deal: When the Yankees kick off their season against the San Francisco Giants on March 25, they’ll be missing three of their starters. Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt are both recovering from Tommy John surgery, though Cole is expected to return later this season. Schmidt’s timeline is less certain, as his surgery was performed in July. Meanwhile, Carlos Rodón, one of the team’s standout pitchers last year, underwent surgery to address a bone spur and remove loose bodies from his throwing arm. He’s projected to return just ahead of Cole.
And this is the part most people miss: On Opening Night, the Yankees’ rotation will lean heavily on ace lefty Max Fried and Cam Schlittler, a promising Rookie of the Year contender. To bolster their roster, the Yankees acquired Ryan Weathers from the Miami Marlins, though his injury-prone history raises questions about his reliability. Luis Gil, fresh off a disappointing 2025 season following his 2024 AL Rookie of the Year win, and Will Warren are also in the mix.
But here's where it gets controversial: If the Yankees don’t make another move, their rotation could look unbalanced. By the trade deadline, Fried, Cole, Rodón, and Schlittler are expected to be the top four, but the fifth spot remains a mystery. Weathers, Gil, and Warren will likely compete for that role during Spring Training and early in the season, when opportunities are plentiful in the absence of Cole and Rodón. While Gil seems to have the edge, a hot streak from Warren or Weathers could shake things up.
Here’s a thought-provoking question: Could the Yankees make a bold move for another starter? Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers was once considered off-limits, but recent contract arbitration issues might have opened a door. However, with multiple left-handed starters already on the roster, the Yankees might opt for a righty to balance the rotation.
As Spring Training unfolds, all eyes will be on the Yankees to see how their rotation takes shape. Will they stick with their current roster or make a splashy acquisition? One thing’s for sure: the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the team’s success this season.
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