Yankees marquee signing Carlos Rodon is getting closer to his New York debut in the latest positive update on his recovery.
The New York Yankees needed some good news this season, and they finally got it in the form of a cautiously optimistic update on Carlos Rodon.
Rodon, the Yankees' $162 million free agent addition, has suffered injury setback after setback leading up to the 2023 season. The former White Sox ace suffered a forearm strain during spring training followed by back injury complications which he received a cortisone shot for back in May.
After monitoring Rodon in his throwing program for the last several weeks, the Yankees have deemed him ready to begin his rehab assignment in the minors. Per manager Aaron Boone, Rodon along with pitcher Ian Hamilton will face hitters in Somerset on Thursday.
Yankees news: Carlos Rodon is cleared for his first rehab outing
The 30-year-old lefty inked a six-year deal with the Yankees after two All-Star seasons on the White Sox and Giants.
Rodon experienced a minor bump in his comeback when he accidentally drilled outfielder Willie Calhoun on Sunday in his second live batting practice session, but both he and Aaron Boone seemed happy about his latest form.
Following Sunday's outing, Rodon said of his pitching:
"The velocity was there. Felt good. I just feel like I can get more work out of facing an opponent instead of people on my own team."
For now, the Yankees will be crossing their fingers hoping Rodon doesn't run into any snags in the minors. Rodon was highly touted to join fellow ace Gerrit Cole as two of the biggest cannons in the pitching rotation, and with Luis Severino not performing up to par and Nestor Cortes still injured, the Yankees needed this win.
The initial revelation that Rodon suffered from a chronic back issue will keep any and all optimism at a healthy level. However, following weeks of demoralizing setbacks and delays, the club has every reason to feel just a little bit giddy about this good news.
