Carlos Rodon makes dubious Yankees history in final start of 2023
New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodon has already had a dismal first season with the team, but he ended with a thud on Friday after the starter laid a historic egg in his final outing of 2023.
Facing off against the Kansas City Royals, Rodon allowed eight earned runs without recording a single out, becoming the first Yankees starter to accomplish the dubious feat.
Meanwhile, according to ESPN Stats and Info, Rodon is the first starter to face eight batters without forcing an out since Steve Matz with the New York Mets in 2019.
Rodon allowed the first eight batters he faced to reach base before being pulled by manager Aaron Boone with the bases juiced and the Yankees trailing 5-0. All three inherited runners eventually crossed the plate, crediting eight to Rodon's line. In total, Rodon allowed six hits and two walks, throwing 35 pitches despite failing to make it out of the first inning.
The poor start comes after Rodon reached out to Yankees fans expressing his disappointment over his performance before vying to prove himself over the remaining five seasons of his lucrative contract. Rodon signed a six-year, $162 million deal in free agency with the Yankees in December but has failed miserably to live up to it.
At the time of his signing, many had doubts about Rodon due to his extensive injury history, including Tommy John surgery in 2019 and other forearm and shoulder ailments. Those worries came to fruition when Rodon had his Yankees debut delayed until July due to forearm and back injuries.
When able to pitch, Rodon wasn't close to the pitcher the Yankees paid for, and after finishing his first season with the team sporting a 3-8 record and a 6.85 ERA in 14 starts, owner Hal Steinbrenner and company might be having a bit of buyer's remorse.
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