Carlos Rodon Poised for MLB Return

Carlos Rodon seems ready to make his comeback to Major League Baseball.

The All-Star left-handed pitcher for the Yankees had a strong performance during his second rehab start after being sidelined with elbow inflammation since July. On Thursday night, he dominated for 4 1/3 innings against the Double-A Somerset Patriots.

Rodon struck out seven batters while throwing 58 pitches, with 41 of those strikes, allowing only two hits and a single walk at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, New Hampshire.

“I feel like I can handle major league hitters at any time,” Rodon shared with reporters following the game.

His main goal was to throw strikes effectively. “I’m not really sure what the next steps will be. I want to contribute to our team’s wins in the majors, but ultimately, that’s not my call,” he added.

The 33-year-old pitcher noted that his performance, which resulted in 15 swings and misses, was “pretty crisp,” especially when compared to his earlier rehab outing where he surrendered three runs in 2 2/3 innings against Triple-A Scranton.

This season has been challenging for Rodon, as he has only made nine starts due to injuries. He holds a 4-2 record with a 3.30 ERA and 52 strikeouts across 46 1/3 innings for New York.

Rodon started 2026 on the injured list after undergoing surgery to remove a bone spur in his left elbow, which delayed his season debut until May 10.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone mentioned that they might “piggyback” Rodon with another starting pitcher, perhaps Ryan Weathers or Will Warren, to gradually increase his workload.

Rodon seems open to that idea. He stated, “I’m here to do whatever it takes to help the team win. If that’s the route they choose, I’m ready to step up.”

Recently, the Yankees have struggled offensively, even facing a 1-0 defeat against the Mariners on Thursday afternoon.

However, Rodon’s return could enhance an already impressive pitching lineup. Cam Schlitler is a solid candidate for the Cy Young Award, while Gerrit Cole has excelled in his first season post-Tommy John surgery.

Max Fried is also back in good form after an elbow injury, managing to allow only one run in five innings during Thursday’s loss.

Warren and Weathers have been consistently active throughout the season, and Rodon is eager to rejoin his teammates. “I have a lot of faith in our players; they’re all at a high level,” he remarked about New York’s rotation, considered among the top in MLB. “We all wear the same uniform, which is great.”