The New York Yankees are facing another challenging juncture in their season as promising rookie right-hander Luis Gil has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a lower back strain. The injury, revealed during Tuesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians, saw Gil exit after just three innings on the mound.
Initially describing the problem as tightness, Gil called for the trainer in the fourth inning. After a pitch, it became evident that the issue was more severe than first thought. Yankee's manager Aaron Boone confirmed that further examination had diagnosed a strain, leading to Gil's early removal from the game. The rookie, only 26, had given up three runs on three hits, issued six walks, and had thrown 78 pitches by the time of his departure.
Despite the untimely nature of the injury, the impact of Gil's absence is considerable for the Yankees. This season, Gil has a respectable 3.39 ERA and accumulated 144 strikeouts over 124 2/3 innings across 24 starts. His performance was especially vital after ace Gerrit Cole went down with a nerve issue in his elbow during spring training. Gil's remarkable resurgence, especially after missing most of 2022 and 2023 due to Tommy John surgery, had solidified his position in the rotation even after Cole's return in June.
“I tried to work through it, but you don't want to force the issue and make it worse. I saw the doctor here and told me to take it day-by-day,” Gil shared about his injury. His cautious optimism, however, was tinged with concern. “I've never felt anything like that. I'm a little worried because you're coming out of the game because something's not right. But at the same time, you have to take it day by day and see how I feel tomorrow.”
The Yankees now find themselves with three starting pitchers on the injured list, a situation compounded by their decision to back away from a trade deal for Jack Flaherty with the Detroit Tigers at the July 30 deadline due to medical concerns. In the interim, the team has called up Warren to take Gil's roster spot. Meanwhile, Poteet has started his minor-league rehab assignment, and Schmidt is expected to follow suit in the coming days.
The Yankees enter Wednesday's play with a 73-53 record, trailing the Baltimore Orioles by half a game in the AL East. As the team navigates through this injury-laden period, they will need to summon their depth and resilience. Gil's contribution this season has been integral, and his absence will undeniably be felt as they push towards the postseason.
Gil’s endurance this season has been a testament to his determination, logging a career-high 124 2/3 innings, surpassing his previous mark of 108 2/3 innings set in 2021. His ability to bounce back from Tommy John surgery and deliver consistently for the Yankees has been nothing short of impressive, making his current setback a significant blow.
For the Yankees, maintaining focus and finding ways to compensate for Gil's absence will be crucial. The road to the postseason is fraught with challenges, but the team's ability to adapt and persevere will define their success.