Return date revealed for Yankees' Carlos Rodon

New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodon. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Return date revealed for Yankees' Carlos Rodon

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Aug 17, 2026 5:22 PM ET

The New York Yankees will be getting a major reinforcement to their pitching rotation ahead of a three-game series against the Baltimore Orioles.

As was first reported by James Smyth of the YES Network, left-hander Carlos Rodon will be activated from the injured list and start on Tuesday in Baltimore.

Rodon has thrown just 46 1/3 innings this season, and last started on June 28 before going on the injured list with an elbow injury.

When healthy, Carlos Rodon has been solid this season

Rodon has posted a 3.30 ERA across his nine starts this season, continuing to look like he did across his 33 starts in 2025 when he posted a 3.09 ERA, the third-best of his career.

Two factors for that have been the decline in both Rodon's walk rate and opponents' slugging percentage. Both of those numbers are down from last season and have been crucial in his continued success.

Carlos Rodon since the start of 2025

42 GS, 22-11, 3.13 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 9.5 K/9

3.13 ERA is the 6th best in the AL in that span (min. 240 IP)
— Dan Rourke (@DanAlanRourke) August 17, 2026

What will the future rotation plans look like?

It has not been made clear yet what the plan for New York's rotation is when Rodon returns. If the Yankees decide to stick with a five-man rotation, it will likely be right-hander Will Warren who is either optioned to Triple-A or moved to the bullpen.

New York could also decide to use the unconditional six-man rotation to keep Warren in the rotation and give each starter an extra day of rest.

Whatever the decision ultimately is, Rodon will be expected to be a key part of the Yankees' effort to make it back to the World Series for the second time in three seasons.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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