Yankees Face Tough Rotation Decisions After $2 Million Veteran's Impressive Start

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Jun 2, 2025 1:36 AM ET

Ryan Yarbrough was the stopper the New York Yankees needed Sunday night. After being humiliated on Saturday and losing the series, the converted reliever stepped up and delivered his best start with the Bronx Bombers.

In six innings, Yarbrough allowed just one run while striking out five in a 7-3 win over the Dodgers. That performance not only helped the Yankees win, but it also made it clear that Yarbrough has become a major piece of their rotation puzzle.

Yarbrough has been impressive since moving from the bullpen into the starting rotation. He’s 3-0 with a 2.83 ERA and a 0.99 WHIP in 13 appearances, five of them starts. With injuries hitting the Yankees’ pitching staff hard, including losing Gerrit Cole for the season to Tommy John surgery, Yarbrough’s ability to provide innings and stability has been a huge plus.

After he shut down the formidable Dodgers’ lineup Sunday night, YES Network’s Jack Curry pointed out that Yarbrough’s success is now forcing the Yankees to rethink their rotation plans, especially as Luis Gil inches closer to returning. Gil, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, has been out since spring training with a high-grade lat strain. He took a big step Friday, throwing off a mound for the first time since the injury.

Gil still has a few steps to go, including facing live hitters and a rehab assignment.

But when he’s ready, the Yankees will have a decision to make. While Yarbrough gives them the flexibility to move him back to the bullpen, do they really want to lose one of their most effective starters?

Rookie right-hander Will Warren was forced into the rotation out of necessity because of the injuries to Cole, Gil, and Clarke Schmidt. He has shown flashes of success, but he’s also struggled. He still has minor league options. He could be the odd man out of the rotation.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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