Yankees Set Rotation To Face Dodgers With Revenge On Their Mind

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated May 28, 2025 8:56 PM ET

This weekend was circled on the calendar in the New York Yankees’ clubhouse. The Los Angeles Dodgers did not just beat them in the 2024 World Series; they embarrassed them.

And then they mocked the Yankees.

So this weekend matters more than most interleague series do.

And the Yankees have lined up their rotation to give them the best chance for a little revenge.

Friday: Max Fried vs. Tony Gonsolin

Max Fried has been the ace the Yankees desperately needed this season. Pitching to a 1.29 ERA and sub-1.00 WHIP, Fried’s ability to stifle lineups with pinpoint control and an effective mix of pitches has made him one of the most reliable starters in the league. On the other side, Tony Gonsolin, though talented, carries a 2.81 ERA and a higher WHIP this season, indicating some vulnerability.

Given Fried’s dominance and consistency, especially at Yankee Stadium, the edge goes firmly to New York here. Expect Fried to hold the Dodgers’ potent offense in check and deliver a strong outing.

Saturday: Will Warren vs. Landon Knack

Will Warren’s recent resurgence has been a bright spot for the Yankees. With a sharp 2.02 ERA over his last four starts and improved command, Warren is gaining confidence and control. Landon Knack, a promising young arm for the Dodgers, has struggled with consistency this year, reflected in his 5.22 ERA and 1.36 WHIP.

While Knack has potential, Warren is actually the more proven big league pitcher, giving the Yankees a clear advantage on Saturday.

Sunday: Ryan Yarbrough or Carlos Rodon vs. Yoshinobu Yamamoto

Sunday’s matchup is the most intriguing. The Dodgers’ Yoshinobu Yamamoto is arguably their best pitcher this season, with an eye-popping 0.93 ERA and razor-sharp control (0.91 WHIP). Facing him will be either Ryan Yarbrough or Carlos Rodón, both solid arms for New York. With the off day on Thursday, the Yankees could use Rodon on regular rest Sunday.

Yarbrough has shown the ability to induce weak contact and keep hitters off balance, posting a respectable 3.06 ERA. Rodon, however, has been one of the Yankees’ most dominant starters with a 2.60 ERA and a stingy 0.94 WHIP.

This is a toss-up, but given Rodon’s ability to generate strikeouts (90 Ks in 72.2 innings) and recent form, the slight edge belongs to the Yankees if they go with him. Against Yamamoto, a pitcher of elite caliber, Rodon’s skill and experience give New York a fighting chance.

Series outlook

This series hinges on strong starting pitching, and the Yankees appear to hold the edge in two of the three games. Fried’s consistency and Warren’s momentum suggest solid chances early in the series, while Sunday’s duel will be a high-stakes battle.

If New York’s offense can capitalize on any cracks and the bullpen holds firm, this series could be another step forward in the Yankees’ pursuit of postseason success.

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

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