Looming Yankees Issue!

In the trades that brought Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo to the Yankees, the team parted ways with seven pitchers, including six potential starters like Michael King. The rotation now faces significant injury risks, particularly with Carlos Rodón and Nestor Cortes. Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the loss of depth but expressed optimism about the reinforcements, citing the potential contributions of pitchers like Will Warren, Chase Hampton, Clayton Beeter, and the return of Luis Gil from injury.

Boone highlighted the excitement surrounding the signing of Cody Poteet, who, despite being 29 and coming off Tommy John surgery, offers depth and potential. Luke Weaver, re-signed by the Yankees, adds experience as a sixth starter or long man. Of the mentioned pitchers, only Weaver has notable major league experience. The 30-year-old righty has had a journeyman career but had a solid performance with the Yankees in 2023, earning a one-year deal.

Cody Poteet, another major league signee, is a 29-year-old right-hander who pitched for the Marlins before undergoing Tommy John surgery. He returned for a minor league game in September 2023. Luis Gil, a 25-year-old right-hander, previously showed promise but required Tommy John surgery in 2022. Will Warren, Clayton Beeter, and Chase Hampton, all prospects, are relatively untested but hold promise.

Boone provided updates on the catching situation, noting that Jose Trevino has been hitting off live velocity for about a month, recovering from wrist surgery. Boone praised Austin Wells and Ben Rortvedt as Major League-caliber catchers, though carrying three catchers on the roster is uncertain. Infielder Jeter Downs and outfielder Oscar González cleared waivers and were outrighted to Triple-A, while outfielder Bubba Thompson was claimed off waivers by the Twins.