Gerrit Cole’s Scary MRI Leaves Yankees Weighing Stroman, Rodon or Surprise Arm for Opening Day

The latest news coming in from the New York Yankees is scary. It seems like the beloved ace, Gerrit Cole, who had no history of an injury, wouldn’t be available for opening day. As much as it is a shock for the folks in the club, it’s the uncertainty of ‘what now’ that is freakish. Is there going to be another arm on opening day?

As the whole world is concerned about Cole’s “discomfort”, Manager Aaron Boone revealed that it “would be difficult” for him to be available on Opening Day for the New York Yankees. While the prognosis is not imminent, more tests are pending. But the gist is that “It’s probably going to be a couple of days” before anyone knows for sure what’s up!

The New York Yankees Flip the Coin With Three Sides

While waiting on an update, it makes one think – Could it be Marcus Stroman who makes it as a starting pitcher, filling Cole Train’s place? Well, the odds are in favor. Multiple speculations suggest ‘Stro’ could secure the top spot behind the Cy Young award winner. Moreover, the bond the two share transcends just on-field camaraderie. 

Stroman, who was acquired in a free agency for $37 million, seems like a great fit as Manager Aaron Boone calls his Spring Training performances “sharp”. But remember? Boone also said, “I’m really excited about some of the guys, like Carlos (Rodón).. coming off injury-riddled seasons”.

Speaking of Carlos Rodon, how could one not consider him to take Cole’s spot? Rodon, who signed a hefty contract (6 years / $162,000,000) with the NYY, also qualifies to be an ace. But this is more complicated than it appears. On one hand, he confidently believes, “I just need to stay on the mound. That’s it. I’m pretty good at this game.” On the other, Rodon himself can’t deny that he is injury-prone. Now that’s an uncertainty that the Yanks must figure out before making a call. 

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Will Dylan Cease’s Surprise Trade Work Out Without Compromising on the Home-Grown Talents?

It is this uncertainty that brings a brand new perspective to the situation at hand. Heard of Dylan Cease? Well, yes, he is the elite pitcher who had once before caught the eyes of the Yankees. But now, the ball might be rolling. Chicago White Sox and the Yankees have spoken about a trade for the 28-year-old pitcher. On the positive side, Bronx’s rotation will be power-packed with Cease onboard. On the negative side, there will be prospects that the Yanks would’ve to bid goodbye to. Are they ready for that? 

Read More: Marcus Stroman Reacts to Gerrit Cole’s ‘Brutal’ Injury News Days After Book Endorsement, Dubs Ace ‘Best in Baseball’

While top prospects like Spencer Jones, Jasson Dominguez, and Austin Wells remain untouched, others might get traded. It’s tough, this situation. The uncertainty of what, when, and how is beyond measure. Cole, 33, who has made four consecutive Opening Day starts since signing with the Yankees in 2019 is not an easy player to replace. Whether it is Stroman, Rodon, or Cease, the decision-making lies in the hands of Boone.