The rhythms of the baseball season often take unexpected turns, something the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Angels experienced firsthand on Tuesday night. The Bronx was the stage for a rainout, compelling both teams to rethink their carefully planned starting rotations.
Following a day off for the Yankees on Monday, the rainout added another unscheduled pause, leading Yankees manager Aaron Boone to make pivotal adjustments. One notable change was the decision to skip Marcus Stroman's scheduled start. Instead of taking the mound on Tuesday, Stroman, who last pitched on Friday, is now set to return on Sunday, August 11. This adjustment means the right-hander will face the next competition with a substantial eight days of rest.
Strategic Adjustments for the Yankees
The Yankees are now preparing for the challenge of a doubleheader on Wednesday. With a rotation featuring Luis Gil, Nestor Cortes, Carlos Ródon, and Gerrit Cole, Boone has the flexibility to approach the doubleheader with both strategic depth and confidence. Will Warren is slated to take the ball for the second game, aligning the Yankees' rotation for the coming days.
"I just felt like there'd be some benefit in Stro having a couple of bullpens to work through some things," Boone explained, highlighting the importance of allowing Stroman some extra time to refine his mechanics and regain his form.
Stroman's Struggles and Recovery
Stroman's performance this season has seen significant fluctuations. He started strong, posting a 6-2 record with an impressive 2.82 ERA over his first 14 starts. However, his last eight starts have been a different story, where he's managed just one win against four losses and an elevated ERA of 6.87. In a tough outing against Boston, Stroman allowed five runs on nine hits in just 3 1/3 innings. Against the Toronto Blue Jays, he gave up seven runs on eight hits in merely 2 2/3 innings.
Adding to the concern, Stroman’s fourseam fastball velocity averaged 88.8 miles per hour, a dip from his season average of 89.8 mph.
Despite these challenges, Boone remains optimistic about Stroman’s condition and potential comeback. "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," said Boone, reflecting his confidence in Stroman's ability to rebound.
Yankees' Outlook
Currently, the Yankees hold a 67-46 record, placing them at the top of the AL East by a narrow half-game margin. As they navigate these unexpected schedule changes and pitcher rotations, the team’s ability to adapt and maintain their standing will be critical.
These adjustments come at a crucial time as the Yankees face not only the physical toll of a disrupted schedule but also the mental challenge of staying focused and competitive. Boone's strategic moves, including allowing Stroman additional rest and carefully orchestrating the doubleheader rotation, will be pivotal in ensuring the team's continued success.
For Yankees fans and followers of Major League Baseball, how well the Yankees manage these trials will be an essential narrative to watch. As the season progresses, the resilience and strategic acumen demonstrated in moments like this can often spell the difference between teams enduring the test of a grueling season and those that falter under pressure.