PETERSBURG, Fla., ST. — Lewis Gil was the solution to a problem for the Yankees, but he’s quickly becoming a problem for the rest of the league.
Gerrit Cole, who replaced him in the rotation, continued to shine on Sunday, pitching a six-inning shutout win over the Yankees and Rays at Tropicana Field.
Gill, who gave up five runs in five innings against the Brewers on April 26, has allowed just one run in his last 18 1/3 innings.
On Sunday, he became the first Yankee since his 2022 call-up to pitch at least six innings and allow one run or less in at least three consecutive starts.
“Hitters can teach you a lot, and you’re often overwhelmed by what he does,” manager Aaron Boone said. “Even if you have a good swing, you usually can’t clip it. Whether it’s deception, velocity, spin, whatever it is, the hitter doesn’t want it to come down to you. This is proof that there is.”
Gill did not show sharp command early on, and although he walked two batters through the first two innings, he robbed a come-from-behind batter from the shin in the third inning.
But he ultimately settled down and retired 13 of the last 15 batters he faced, allowing just three hits all day.
Gill’s three strikeouts were the fewest of any starting pitcher this season, but were still impressive — two on a 98 mph fastball and one on a 93.6 mph changeup to Randy Arozarena. Ta.
“First of all, I have to thank God for allowing me to be here and keeping me healthy,” Gill said after lowering his ERA to 2.51. “Secondly, I would like to thank the organization for giving me the opportunity to come here. [about] Stay focused and keep working. ”
DJ LeMahieu (non-displaced foot fracture) ran the bases before Sunday’s game, picking up ground balls at third and second base.
He will return to Tampa to pitch live at the Yankees’ player development facility on Tuesday and could begin his rehab assignment soon after.
