The New York Yankees have their eyes on a World Series this season. After trading for Juan Soto and signing Marcus Stroman, they have more than enough to complete that task.
Winning a World Series is never easy, and despite the talent the Yankees have, it's going to take a team effort to accomplish their goal. As New York enters Spring Training, the health of Carlos Rodon could be the biggest factor in them being a much different team in 2024.
Rodon struggled last season and injuries played a huge part in that. If he can return to the pitcher he was prior to 2023, it changes everything about this team.
Thomas Harrigan and David Adler of MLB.com listed the one key number for every team in 2024. They write that for the Yankees, it's Carlos Rodon's WAR.
They note that after Gerrit Cole, they have questions in the rotation. Rodon posted a 6.85 ERA and -0.9 WAR over his 14 starts. Harrigan and Adler write that New York needs him to produce like he did when he posted a 10.5 WAR between 2021 and 22.
With Stroman now in the mix, this takes some pressure off the left-handed potential ace. Playing for the Yankees isn't easy with media and fan pressure, so that could've been a factor.
Health, a year under his belt, and a better rotation should help Rodon get back to the pitcher he was. If not, New York is going to be in a tough position on the mound this season.
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