With Ace Gerrit Cole Down, Carlos Rodón Dials Up Vintage 97mph Heat Giving Hope to Yankees Rotation

The New York Yankees’ rotation took a significant hit with the news of ace Gerrit Cole’s injury, who has now been reported to miss a minimum of one to two months of field time this season. But in a glimmer of hope, starter Carlos Rodón has dialed up his fastball velocity, hitting high-tier 90s in a recent Spring Training outing. This resurgence offers promise for a Yankees starting rotation looking to overcome Cole’s temporary absence.

Rodón, a two-time All-Star who dazzled with the San Francisco Giants in 2022, experienced a marked decline in velocity after signing with the Yankees last year. In the past, his fastball velocity comfortably reached the high 90s—a valid proof of the insane control he used to have on his pitches.

However, a marked decline to an average of 93.2 mph that went up to only 94.8mph during a Spring Training game vs. the Detroit Tigers raised concerns about his signature pitch and its implications for his overall performance. The lingering effects of an injury seemed to prevent him from reaching the heights of his 98-99 mph fastballs. This hindered his control and overall effectiveness, drawing concern throughout the organization and the Yankees fanbase.

Now, the narrative is shifting. Carlos Rodón’s fastball velocity has consistently returned to his All-Star form—peaking at a formidable 97mph.

Read More: Carlos Rodón’s Rocky Spring Training Start Raising Injury Red Flags For Yankees

This renewed power is the foundation of his revitalized pitching arsenal. He demonstrates a heightened level of control, expertly painting the corners of the strike zone with his fastball and devastating slider combo. The result is a string of strikeouts and frustrated opposing hitters. While statistics are revealing, Rodón’s own assessment of his return to form offers valuable insights. 

Carlos Rodón Reflects on a Confident Outing

“I think just refining, you know, the mechanics throughout the week and just finding my move down the mound… put me in a better place to move more efficiently and produce some velo behind the ball,” Rodón explained in a recent interview with Meredith Marakovits of YES Network. His emphasis on refined mechanics highlights a focused effort to regain not only his power, but also the commanding presence he once held on the mound.

This 2024 Rodón exudes newfound confidence, stating his performance went as well as one could expect—“Yeah, I mean 4 ups, got to work with (Austin) Wells again, and uh, velocity was there… Overall, just a good outing and definitely builds some confidence for sure.” This sense of control and satisfaction extends beyond just his fastball velocity, as Rodón looks forward to expanding his repertoire, working on cutters, and aiming for deeper outings while he builds stamina.

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

Regardless of injuries remaining a lingering concern in the sport, Carlos Rodón’s current trajectory inspires hope in the Yankees’ clubhouse. If he sustains this momentum, the left-hander has the potential to alleviate the pressure caused by Cole’s absence, providing a desperately needed anchor to the rotation. His revitalized fastball, improved command, and evident mental strength paint a compelling picture of a pitcher poised to reclaim his place among baseball’s elite.