The New York Yankees have begun the 2026 season without two key starting pitchers in left-hander Carlos Rodon and right-hander Gerrit Cole. However, they have gotten off to a hot start this season, entering Sunday’s action against the Miami Marlins with a 7-1 record, a three-game lead in the American League East and a four-game winning streak.
Rodon had elbow surgery in the offseason, and he is still recovering from that. The veteran left-hander threw a bullpen session on Saturday for the Bronx Bombers.
Rodon reportedly felt soreness in his elbow, but manager Aaron Boone doesn’t appear to be concerned. Bryan Hoch of MLB.com provided an encouraging update on what next steps could be for the left-hander.
“Carlos Rodon felt some soreness after his bullpen/agility work yesterday, ‘but that’s to be expected,’ Aaron Boone said. Next step would be another side session, then potentially a Minor League rehab start,” Hoch posted Sunday on X.
Rodon made 33 starts last season with the Bronx Bombers, winning 18 games and posting a 3.09 ERA in 195 1/3 innings pitched while also striking out 203 batters. He earned his third All-Star selection and even finished sixth in the AL Cy Young race.
The soreness following his bullpen session may be a little concerning, but Rodon does at least appear to be taking steps forward in his rehab journey. Perhaps soon, he could be back in action for the Yankees, which would give an already powerful starting rotation a boost as the season continues.
The Yankees gave Rodon a six-year, $162 million contract before the 2023 season. It will be interesting to see how he responds to his latest bullpen session and when he will pitch again.
More MLB: Mookie Betts Out of Dodgers Game After Injury — What’s His Status? – Newsweek
