Camilo Doval was brought in by the Yankees as a reliable arm, someone who could help secure crucial outs in important situations. However, since he was traded from the Giants on July 31, things haven’t gone well. His most recent outing was a disappointing performance during a 6-3 loss to the Red Sox at home.
In the sixth inning, Doval entered the game with a 3-2 lead but ended up giving up the tying run after allowing two hits and a walk. This marks his third straight outing where he’s given up runs, and it’s been rough overall—four times in five games—ever since he joined the Bronx team.
“He has great stuff, but it’s just about throwing strikes. That’s what really sharpens him up,” said Aaron Boone. “Right now, he’s not quite at his best.”
The Yankees traded four minor leaguers for Doval: pitchers Tristan Vriling and Carlos de la Rosa, catcher Jesus Rodriguez, and infielder Parks Harbour. On the same day, they also picked up David Bednar from the Pirates to strengthen their bullpen.
Interestingly, even though the Yankees got a win in 10 innings recently, Doval had blown a save the night before in Tampa. Boone has been giving Bednar closing opportunities in place of the injured Devin Williams, and together, the two All-Stars have racked up three saves for the Yankees.
Doval had been impressive in San Francisco, recording 107 saves over five seasons and arriving with a solid 3.09 ERA. But his performance since joining the Yankees has been concerning; he has a 7.36 ERA in the short time and seems to be struggling with walks, having issued eight alongside eight strikeouts.
“I just need to adjust to my role here,” Doval expressed through an interpreter. “Preparation is key, and I want to give my all on the field. Sometimes, the ball just doesn’t bounce your way.”
In a recent outing, Doval retired the first batter he faced but then allowed a single that tied the game. He reflected on his pitching, saying, “It’s about being aggressive and going after hitters, and sometimes you just get hit.”
Boone eventually brought in Mark Leiter Jr., who managed to secure the next two outs. However, the Red Sox would go on to score two additional runs in the ninth, aided by an unfortunate misplay from the Yankees.
