The rhythm of Major League Baseball is often disrupted by unforeseen events, and Tuesday night was a classic example for the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Angels. A rainout in the Bronx forced both teams to adjust their strategies, setting off a chain reaction that has reshaped the immediate futures of their starting rotations.
Yankees' Rotation Adjustments
Having already enjoyed a day off on Monday, the Yankees found themselves with an unexpected additional break on Tuesday. Manager Aaron Boone saw this as an opportunity to make a significant tactical decision. Marcus Stroman, who was slated to pitch, had his start rescheduled. Instead of taking the mound as planned, Stroman will now pitch on Sunday, August 11, giving him eight days of rest since his last outing on Friday.
“I just felt like there'd be some benefit in Stro having a couple of bullpens to work through some things,” Boone explained. His confidence in Stroman remains unwavering despite recent challenges. “I'm not too concerned about it. I pay attention to it, but I felt like he's in a pretty good place right now as far as some of the things he's been working through and some of the video he's looked at, then how his bullpen went [Tuesday]. So, no, not too concerned. And physically he feels good,” Boone added.
Preparing for the Doubleheader
With a doubleheader scheduled for Wednesday, Boone's rotation is under scrutiny. Fortunately, the Yankees can rely on a strong roster of pitchers, including Luis Gil, Nestor Cortes, Carlos Ródon, and Gerrit Cole. Their availability provides Boone with the flexibility to deploy a well-considered strategy for the doubleheader.
Will Warren is set to pitch the second game on Wednesday, a key decision that aligns well with the Yankees' broader plan for their rotation in the coming days.
Stroman's Recent Performance
Stroman’s record over his first 14 starts this season was impressive, with a 6-2 record and a solid 2.82 ERA. However, the right-hander's performance has dipped in his last eight starts, where he has secured only one win against four losses. Particularly notable was his elevated ERA of 6.87 during this period.
His recent outings have been less than stellar. In a game against Boston, Stroman allowed five runs on nine hits over just 3 1/3 innings. Similarly, against the Toronto Blue Jays, he surrendered seven runs on eight hits in just 2 2/3 innings. There has also been a noticeable drop in the velocity of his fourseam fastball, averaging 88.8 miles per hour compared to his season average of 89.8 mph.
Yankees’ Standings and Future Prospects
Despite these recent hiccups, the Yankees maintain a strong position with a 67-46 record, leading the AL East by a narrow half-game margin. The adjustments made by Boone, particularly regarding Stroman, are seen as strategic moves aimed at long-term benefits as the season progresses.
The upcoming doubleheader and the following games will be critical for the Yankees. Boone’s strategic flexibility, combined with the team’s overall depth, puts them in a promising position to tackle these challenges head-on.
As the Yankees look to solidify their lead in the standings, all eyes will be on the performance of their rotation, particularly Marcus Stroman, who is aiming to regain his early-season form. Boone’s tactical decisions could very well make the difference as the Yankees navigate the latter part of the season, with an eye firmly on postseason success.