The New York Yankees have named Carlos Rodon as their starting pitcher for Game 2 of the American League Division Series, set for Monday against either the Kansas City Royals or the Baltimore Orioles. However, the decision on who will start Game 3, scheduled for next Wednesday, remains uncertain.
Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake mentioned in a video call that the team could decide between Luis Gil and Clarke Schmidt, though the final call is likely to come after Game 1 to allow flexibility in case either pitcher is needed in relief.
Blake emphasized the importance of flexibility when making the Game 3 decision, noting that the Yankees might wait to assess the bullpen’s usage during Game 1. If there are extra innings or heavy usage of relievers, the Yankees may decide on Game 3’s starter based on that situation. This would also allow the team to use Gil or Schmidt out of the bullpen if necessary, depending on the circumstances of the series.
Luis Gil, who had a breakout year in 2024, has impressed during the regular season with a 15-7 record and a 3.50 ERA in 151.2 innings. His unexpected rise to a rotation spot after Gerrit Cole’s injury in spring training helped him secure a position in the Yankees’ rotation for most of the season.
In contrast, Clarke Schmidt had a solid year but missed time due to injury. Schmidt posted a 2.85 ERA in 85.1 innings and is considered the more experienced pitcher in terms of relief work, having appeared in 30 career games out of the bullpen, including a strong 2022 season.
Despite Schmidt’s relief experience, Gil’s struggles with walks and lack of bullpen experience could make him a less reliable option in high-pressure situations, such as during the postseason. Blake acknowledged these concerns, noting that using Gil as a reliever would present some uncertainties, given his past as a starter. However, Blake also highlighted Gil’s high potential if things click in a relief role, while Schmidt’s proven success in both starting and relieving roles makes him the safer option.
For the upcoming series, Gerrit Cole, who will start Game 1, is lined up to take the mound for Game 4 on regular rest, should the series extend that far. If necessary, Rodon, after starting Game 2, would be available to pitch Game 5 on regular rest. Rodon himself had a strong season, bouncing back from a difficult 2023 filled with injuries.
After struggling with a 6.85 ERA last year, he improved to a 3.96 ERA in 2024, demonstrating significant growth in his pitching approach. His ability to mix pitches effectively this season, including his curveball and changeup, has helped him avoid injury and become a reliable presence in the Yankees’ rotation.
