The New York Yankees' season continues to be riddled with setbacks, as promising rookie right-hander Luis Gil is the latest to join the injured list. Gil has been placed on the 15-day IL due to a lower back strain, a development confirmed after his early exit during Tuesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians.
Manager Aaron Boone disclosed that Gil initially reported the issue as tightness when he called the trainer to the mound after a pitch in the fourth inning. This led to his removal from the game after just three innings of work. A subsequent examination revealed a lower back strain, much to the disappointment of the Yankees' staff and fans alike.
“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 he told me to take it day by day,” said a clearly concerned Gil. “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.”
This setback for Gil is significant. At 26 years old, Gil has posted a commendable 3.39 ERA and accumulated 144 strikeouts over 124 2/3 innings across 24 starts this season. His performance has been integral to the Yankees' rotation, particularly as he filled in following ace Gerrit Cole’s nerve issue in his elbow during spring training. Gil remained a mainstay in the rotation even after Cole’s return in June, underscoring his value to the team.
During Tuesday’s game, Gil gave up three runs on three hits, issued six walks, and threw a total of 78 pitches before his premature exit. Despite this performance, his overall contributions this season have been crucial, especially considering he logged a career-high 124 2/3 innings, surpassing his previous best of 108 2/3 innings set in 2021.
Gil's journey has not been without challenges. He missed most of the 2022 and 2023 seasons recovering from Tommy John surgery. His return this year had brought hope and a much-needed boost to the Yankees' pitching lineup, making this latest injury all the more disheartening.
The Yankees now find themselves with three starting pitchers on the injured list, creating a precarious situation as they navigate through an already injury-laden period. The team had previously stepped away from a trade deal for Jack Flaherty with the Detroit Tigers at the July 30 trade deadline, citing concerns over Flaherty's medicals. With limited options, the Yankees have called up Warren to take Gil’s roster spot and are now closely monitoring their remaining pitchers.
In some positive news, Poteet has commenced a minor-league rehab assignment, while Schmidt is expected to start his own rehab in the coming days. These developments could potentially alleviate some of the strain on the Yankees' pitching staff as they push towards the postseason.
Currently, the Yankees hold a 73-53 record, trailing the Baltimore Orioles by just half a game in the AL East. The objective now will be to maintain their focus and find strategies to cope with Gil's absence, which is easier said than done given the integral role he has played this season.
The Yankees' resilience will be put to the test as they strive to compensate for the loss of Gil. His performance this season, especially his career-high innings and effectiveness despite his recent struggles, has been noteworthy. The team's ability to fill the void left by Gil and continue their march towards the postseason will be crucial in the coming weeks.