The New York Yankees starting staff has been making history this season, even without last year’s AL Cy Young Award winner, Gerrit Cole. In a recent game against the Los Angeles Angels, Nestor Cortes added to the team’s impressive run by allowing only two runs in 5⅓ innings. This performance helped the Yankees set a major league record with their starters going 15 straight games where they have tossed at least five innings and allowed two runs or fewer. This streak is the longest of its kind since the mound moved to its current distance in 1893, according to Elias Sports Bureau research. The Yankees surpassed the former mark shared by the 2022 New York Mets, 1968 Pittsburgh Pirates, and 1907 Philadelphia Phillies.
Manager Aaron Boone expressed his amazement at the pitching staff’s performance, calling it “amazing” and highlighting how they have set the tone for the team throughout the season. Despite the record-setting streak, the Yankees fell short in the game against the Angels, losing 4-3 as the Angels rallied for a pair of runs in the eighth inning. However, the Yankees’ starting staff has maintained an impressive 2.73 ERA, tied with the Phillies for the best in the majors. This success is particularly notable considering Gerrit Cole has been sidelined due to right elbow discomfort.
Luis Gil, who was set to take the mound following Cortes’ strong outing, has been a standout performer for the Yankees. Gil is tied for second in the AL in wins with six and boasts a 2.11 ERA, which was fifth in the league at the time. Additionally, Carlos Rodón and Clarke Schmidt have also been key contributors to the team’s success. Rodón has six wins, and Schmidt’s 2.52 ERA was ninth in the AL. Despite the absence of Cole, Boone expressed confidence in the pitching staff’s abilities and commended their individual performances. He mentioned that while Cole’s injury presented challenges, the staff has risen to the occasion and delivered exceptional results.
Following the game, Nestor Cortes shared that the record-setting streak had sparked some healthy competition among the pitchers. He revealed that each pitcher aims to outdo the previous night’s performance, pushing themselves to go deeper into games and provide quality innings. Cortes emphasized the sense of pride the staff takes in their work and acknowledged the benefits of going deep into games for the team’s bullpen. This competitive environment has contributed to the success of the Yankees’ pitching staff and has motivated each pitcher to deliver their best on the field.
Despite the team’s impressive performance, the Yankees are eagerly awaiting Gerrit Cole’s return to the rotation. Cole is set to throw another batting practice session at the team’s complex in Tampa, with the possibility of starting a rehab assignment soon. Boone expressed optimism about Cole’s progress and highlighted the significance of having him back on the mound. The Yankees are looking to maintain their strong pitching presence and continue their success as they aim for greater achievements in the season ahead.