The rhythms of a baseball season are often subject to unforeseen interruptions, and Tuesday night was no exception for the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Angels. The Bronx experienced a rainout, leading both teams to adjust their starting rotations, adding another twist to their schedules.
Following a day off on Monday, Yankees manager Aaron Boone made the strategic choice to skip Marcus Stroman's scheduled start. Originally slated to pitch, Stroman will instead take the mound on Sunday, August 11, benefiting from an extended rest period of eight days. Boone commented, "I just felt like there'd be some benefit in Stro having a couple of bullpens to work through some things."
This pivot necessitates a reconfiguration as the Yankees confront the challenge of a doubleheader on Wednesday. With a well-rounded pitching staff that includes Luis Gil, Nestor Cortes, Carlos Ródon, and Gerrit Cole, Boone possesses the flexibility to navigate this doubleheader astutely. Will Warren is set to start in the second game on Wednesday, allowing the Yankees to strategically align their rotation for the upcoming matchups.
Struggles and Adjustments
Stroman's performance this season has seen its share of highs and lows. In his first 14 starts, he showcased a commendable 6-2 record with a 2.82 ERA. However, his subsequent outings have been less impressive. Over his last eight starts, Stroman managed only one win against four losses, with his ERA ballooning to 6.87. Specific struggles were evident in recent games, such as his outing against Boston where he allowed five runs on nine hits over just 3 1/3 innings. Similarly, against the Toronto Blue Jays, Stroman surrendered seven runs on eight hits in 2 2/3 innings. His fourseam fastball velocity also dipped, averaging 88.8 miles per hour compared to his season average of 89.8 mph.
Despite these challenges, Aaron Boone remains confident in Stroman's ability to rebound. "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."
Strategic Implications
Boone's decision to skip Stroman's start and give him additional bullpen sessions appears aimed at allowing the pitcher to recalibrate and address any underlying issues. This tactical move could pay dividends for the Yankees as they continue their pursuit of success in the AL East.
Currently, the Yankees hold a 67-46 record and lead the AL East by a narrow half-game margin. Each decision made by Boone and his staff is magnified as the team chases postseason aspirations. The doubleheader against the Angels and the subsequent games represent critical opportunities for the Yankees to solidify their standing.
In the upcoming series, the utilization of pitchers like Gil, Cortes, Ródon, Cole, and Warren will be key. Each game presents a new set of challenges and opportunities, and the strategic flexibility offered by a diverse and talented pitching roster cannot be overstated. This adaptability is vital as the Yankees navigate a season filled with unpredictable elements, from rainouts to rotational shifts.
As the Yankees fans eagerly anticipate Sunday's game featuring a well-rested Stroman, the team's collective focus remains on seizing each moment and maintaining their lead in a highly competitive AL East. Boone's experience and strategic foresight will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the Yankees' ability to meet the demands of the season and surpass the hurdles that lie ahead.