The New York Yankees are facing yet another challenge as promising rookie right-hander Luis Gil has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a lower back strain. This setback transpired during Tuesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians, where Gil exited the mound in the fourth inning after pitching just three innings.
Manager Aaron Boone disclosed that Gil initially reported feeling tightness, but further evaluation confirmed the more serious strain. The young pitcher called the trainer to the mound after a pitch in the fourth inning, which led to his premature departure from the game.
Gil, 26, had given up three runs on three hits and issued six walks, throwing a total of 78 pitches before his exit. His season statistics have been impressive, boasting a 3.39 ERA with 144 strikeouts over 124 2/3 innings across 24 starts. Gil secured his place in the Yankees' rotation during spring training when ace Gerrit Cole was sidelined with a nerve issue in his elbow. Even upon Cole's return in June, Gil retained his spot in the rotation, underscoring his significance to the team's pitching lineup.
“I tried to work through it, but you don't want to force the issue and make it worse. I saw the doctor here, and he told me to take it day-by-day,” Gil explained. “I've never felt anything like that. I'm a little worried because you're coming out of the game because something's not right. But at the same time, you have to take it day by day and see how I feel tomorrow.”
With Gil's injury, the Yankees are now grappling with three starting pitchers on the injured list. This strain has compelled the team to call up Warren to take Gil's roster spot. Furthermore, Poteet has commenced a minor-league rehab assignment, and Schmidt is anticipated to begin his minor-league rehab in the coming days.
Adding to the Yankees' woes, the team stepped back from a trade deal for pitcher Jack Flaherty with the Detroit Tigers at the July 30 trade deadline due to concerns over his medical condition. This decision, coupled with the current injuries, underscores the precarious position of the Yankees' pitching staff.
Entering Wednesday's play, the Yankees hold a 73-53 record, trailing just half a game behind the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East. Despite this impressive record, the team is navigating a season marred by injuries. Gil's contribution this season has been pivotal, particularly after recovering from Tommy John surgery, which caused him to miss most of 2022 and 2023. This season, he logged a career-high 124 2/3 innings, surpassing his previous record of 108 2/3 innings set in 2021.
The absence of Gil, who has been integral to the Yankees' rotation, will undoubtedly be felt. The team must find ways to compensate for this loss as they continue to push towards the postseason. The depth of the Yankees' pitching staff will be tested in the coming weeks as they strive to maintain their competitive edge in the highly contested AL East.
As the Yankees face this injury-laden period, the focus now shifts to their ability to adapt and overcome these challenges. While the setback is significant, the Yankees' resilience and depth will be critical as they navigate the remainder of the season.