Carlos Rodón Shines in Crucial Start for Yankees
Carlos Rodón delivered a standout performance on Friday night, just when it was needed the most.
The left-handed pitcher, who has been dealing with elbow issues throughout the season, turned in what might be his best outing yet against the Mets, securing a 6-4 victory in The Bronx.
Rodón went 6 ¹/₃ innings, giving up two runs—only one of which was earned—while striking out eight batters, marking a season high for him.
“I thought he threw the heck out of the ball,” said Aaron Boone, the Yankees’ manager.
Wearing an FDNY cap to honor the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Rodón later expressed that it was “an honor to be able to pitch” on such a poignant evening.
Before this game, Rodón hadn’t allowed more than two runs since returning from elbow inflammation, but he had struggled to pitch deep into games. However, on this occasion, he appeared to rise to the challenge against a Mets lineup that has improved recently.
He did run into some trouble early when he gave up a leadoff walk to Mark Vientos in the second inning, who later scored due to a fielding error by Spencer Jones. Following a single by Marcus Semien that contributed to an unearned run, Rodón then retired 15 of the next 16 batters he faced, until Carson Benge’s hit ended his night in the seventh.
Rodón reached 93 pitches before being replaced, as the Yankees have been cautious not to push him past the 100-pitch mark this season.
Paul Blackburn came in but struggled, allowing a run-scoring single by A.J. Ewing, which led to the only additional run against Rodón. Still, given Rodón’s recent history—including a delayed start to the season due to offseason elbow surgery and a subsequent stint on the injured list for inflammation in late June—this performance was a welcome sight for the Yankees.
Before this game, Rodón had surrendered just five earned runs over his last four starts but had only pitched a total of 17 ²/₃ innings. His previous outing in San Diego was effective too, as he struck out seven while allowing just one run. However, he had walked three batters in that game.
On this occasion, he issued just the one walk, setting the stage for a more promising outing. Boone commented on his improved command, noting, “He had better strike-throwing. He’s been really effective and really limiting hits, but walks have hurt him and his ability to get deep in games.”
If this performance is any indication, Rodón could be finding his stride. As long as he stays healthy, he’s likely to be a significant asset for the team as they head into the final stretch of the season and the playoffs.
“He’s been in a good place throughout the year when he’s healthy,” Boone added.
