The New York Yankees are dealing with another significant setback as one of their promising rookie right-handers, Luis Gil, has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a lower back strain. This adds to the mounting injuries the team is struggling to navigate as the season progresses.
During Tuesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians, Gil was pulled out after pitching just three innings. Initially describing the issue as tightness, Gil called the trainer to the mound after a pitch in the fourth inning. Further examination confirmed a strain, leading to his early exit from the game. The 26-year-old pitcher allowed three runs on three hits and issued six walks, amassing a total of 78 pitches before being forced to leave.
Reflecting on the incident, Gil shared his concerns, “I tried to work through it, but you don't want to force the issue and make it worse. I saw the doctor here, and he told me to take it day-by-day.” He added, “I've never felt anything like that. I'm a little worried because you're coming out of the game because something's not right. But at the same time, you have to take it day by day and see how I feel tomorrow.”
Gil has been a crucial part of the Yankees’ rotation this season, especially after ace Gerrit Cole went down with a nerve issue in his elbow during spring training. Gil earned his spot in the rotation following Cole’s injury and managed to remain in the starting lineup even upon Cole’s return in June. His contributions have been substantial, boasting a 3.39 ERA with 144 strikeouts over 124 2/3 innings across 24 starts this season. Notably, he logged a career-high 124 2/3 innings, surpassing his previous record of 108 2/3 innings set in 2021. This marks a strong comeback for Gil, who missed most of 2022 and 2023 due to Tommy John surgery.
However, Gil’s absence is yet another blow to the Yankees' rotation, with three starting pitchers now on the injured list. In response, the team has called up Warren to take Gil's roster spot as they attempt to navigate this injury-laden period. Additionally, Poteet has begun a minor-league rehab assignment, and Schmidt is expected to start his minor-league rehab in the coming days.
The timing of these injuries comes at a critical juncture for the Yankees. With a 73-53 record entering Wednesday's play, they are just half a game behind the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East. Every game holds significant weight as the Yankees push towards postseason contention. The front office, aware of these high stakes, backed away from a trade deal for Jack Flaherty with the Detroit Tigers at the July 30 trade deadline due to concerns over his medicals. This decision underscores their cautious approach amid the current injury challenges.
The loss of Gil will inevitably be felt deeply within the team. Given his integral role this season, his absence will require the Yankees to maintain their focus and develop strategies to compensate for his contributions. The resilience and depth of the roster will be tested as they continue to push towards the postseason, making this a pivotal moment for the team.
Manager Aaron Boone and the Yankees are left to hope for a swift recovery for their rotation members and to find a way to sustain their performance during this crucial stretch of the season. With key players working through rehab assignments and the team seeking to stabilize their pitching staff, the road ahead remains challenging but not insurmountable.