Yankees Evaluate Starting Pitchers for Postseason in September

The New York Yankees are in a critical evaluation phase as they approach the postseason, focusing on their starting pitching options. With Gerrit Cole confirmed as the playoff opener, the team is assessing the effectiveness of other starters, including Luis Gil and Clarke Schmidt, who recently returned from injuries. Gil showcased his potential with a strong performance, while Schmidt is gradually increasing his innings after a lengthy absence due to a lat strain. The Yankees currently have seven starters available, which presents both opportunities and challenges. Nestor Cortes has had mixed results, and his role in the postseason remains uncertain. The team is also considering veterans Carlos Rodon and Marcus Stroman, both of whom have had inconsistent outings this season. Rodon’s impressive strikeout performance contrasts with some disappointing games, raising questions about his postseason reliability. As the Yankees aim for their third division title since 2012, the remaining games will serve as auditions for these pitchers. The competition among Gil, Schmidt, Cortes, Rodon, and Stroman will be crucial in determining the playoff rotation. The Yankees' depth in pitching is a significant advantage, especially in a league where many teams struggle to find reliable arms. Additionally, the Yankees are navigating the pressure of Aaron Judge's recent slump, which has seen his home run pace slow down. This dynamic adds another layer of complexity to the team's postseason strategy, as they balance offensive and pitching strengths heading into the final stretch of the season.