Yankees’ $162 million pitcher is showing his All-Star version

When the Yankees invested $162 million in Carlos Rodon, they were aiming to see the high-caliber performance he demonstrated a couple of years ago with the San Francisco Giants. After a 2023 season marred by injuries, Rodon is making a commendable comeback this year, despite ranking in the lower percentiles in most pitching categories.

Rodon recently showcased his regained form in a game against the San Diego Padres, where he delivered six scoreless innings. He allowed only three hits and struck out two batters, throwing a total of 93 pitches. This performance helped lower his ERA to an impressive 2.95, positioning him as one of three Yankees starters with an ERA under 3.00, a testament to the team’s pitching dominance.

Rodon’s Role in the Yankees’ Rotation

At 31 years old, Rodon is recording 8.41 strikeouts and 2.80 walks per nine innings, maintaining an 87.2% left-on-base rate and a 32% ground ball rate. Having already pitched 61 innings this season—just shy of his total from 2023—Rodon is on track to far exceed last year’s innings, affirming his durability and effectiveness. His annual $27 million salary reflects his significant contribution, especially crucial in Gerrit Cole’s absence.