The New York Yankees' Pitching Woes Continue as Luis Gil Hits the Injured List
The New York Yankees are dealing with yet another blow to their pitching rotation as promising rookie right-hander Luis Gil has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a lower back strain. This unfortunate development adds to the growing list of sidelined Yankees' starters, with the team now having three in total on the injured list.
The incident took place during Tuesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians. Gil, 26, was pulled from the game after pitching just three innings. He allowed three runs on three hits, issued six walks, and threw a total of 78 pitches before calling for the trainer in the fourth inning. Initially describing the issue as tightness, Gil later underwent an examination that confirmed the strain.
"I tried to work through it, but you don't want to force the issue and make it worse," Gil said. "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 vital part of the Yankees' rotation this season, especially after earning his spot following ace Gerrit Cole's nerve issue in his elbow during spring training. Although Cole returned in June, Gil maintained his position in the rotation due to his exceptional performance. He boasts a 3.39 ERA with 144 strikeouts over 124 2/3 innings across 24 starts this season, surpassing his previous career-high of 108 2/3 innings set in 2021.
The Yankees have been navigating through a challenging period marked by numerous injuries. The trade deal for Jack Flaherty with the Detroit Tigers fell through just before the July 30 trade deadline because of concerns over Flaherty's medical condition. As a result, the team has had to rely heavily on its existing roster, which is now stretched even thinner.
Stepping in to fill Gil's roster spot is Warren, who has been called up from the minors. Additionally, Poteet has begun a minor-league rehab assignment, and Schmidt is expected to start his rehab in the coming days. Despite these adjustments, losing Gil is a significant setback, especially as the Yankees enter a critical phase of the season.
Entering Wednesday's play, the Yankees hold a 73-53 record, finding themselves just half a game behind the Baltimore Orioles in the fiercely competitive AL East. Gil's contributions this season have been instrumental in keeping the Yankees in playoff contention, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt by a team striving to maintain their momentum.
This recent injury is a continuation of the challenges Gil has faced in his career. He missed most of 2022 and parts of 2023 recovering from Tommy John surgery, making his performance this season even more impressive. The Yankees will need to find ways to compensate for the loss of his arm as they push towards the postseason.
The focus now shifts to keeping the remaining pitchers healthy and performing at their best. Manager Aaron Boone and the Yankees' coaching staff will have to strategize and adapt their rotation, perhaps leaning more on the bullpen or considering alternate rotations until their injured pitchers make a return.
For now, the Yankees and their fans will have to keep a close watch on Luis Gil's recovery. His situation will be monitored day by day, with the hope that he can return to the mound soon and help steer the Yankees toward a strong finish this season.