BREAKING: Yankees To Have New Star In Starting Rotation
In the absence of Gerrit Cole, the New York Yankees have leaned heavily on alternative starters to fill the void. Nestor Cortes and Carlos Rodon, both recovering from injury-plagued seasons in 2023, have been tasked with elevating their performances to support the team.
Cortes has particularly shone in recent outings, demonstrating his All-Star potential with impressive displays in his last three starts. Meanwhile, Rodon’s performance has been more varied, with mixed results. However, Luis Gil, a 25-year-old pitcher who has overcome numerous injury setbacks, has emerged as one of the team’s most reliable starters this season.
The Yankees Have Something Special in Luis Gil
Gil made his MLB debut in 2021 and left a strong impression, boasting a 3.07 ERA over 29.1 innings at just 23 years old. Since then, he has faced significant challenges, including undergoing Tommy John surgery, but has persevered to earn a spot in the rotation.
This season, Gil has pitched 19.2 innings with an impressive 2.75 ERA and a 3.00 FIP. Notably, he has recorded a striking 13.27 strikeouts per nine innings, while maintaining a solid 73.1% left-on-base rate and a respectable 44.4% ground ball rate. Despite issuing walks at a rate of 7.78 per nine innings, Gil has yet to surrender a home run, a notable achievement.
Gil’s effectiveness largely hinges on his command; when his fastball finds its mark, he proves difficult for hitters to handle. However, his occasional struggles with control have allowed opposing teams to capitalize with walks and easy base access.
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In his recent outing on Sunday, Gil delivered his finest performance, tallying nine strikeouts and surrendering only two hits across 5.2 innings. The lone run scored against him was unearned, positioning the Yankees favorably for a potential victory.
Boone has had a firsthand view of Gil’s potential. While his fastball, which averages 96.7 mph, may have slightly decreased from 2022, it continues to be a potent weapon. Gil stands out in various statistical categories, ranking in the 99th percentile in expected batting average (xBA) at .105, with an expected ERA (xERA) of 2.17. Additionally, he boasts high rankings in strikeout rate, barrel rate, and hard-hit percentage.
Opposing hitters have struggled immensely against Gil’s fastball, managing only a .108 average, and his breaking ball has been even more stifling, with hitters batting just .059 against it. However, hitters have found some success against his slider, posting a .300 batting average.