With the injury to star pitcher Luis Severino, the New York Yankees had to re-think their entire opening day plan. Instilling trust in a player to get the season off on the right foot is a big deal, and Severino put in the work to deserve the opportunity. Nonetheless, an inflamed rotator cuff has shot down his chance.
In regard to Opening Day, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone stated:
“We’re there,†Boone said Friday.
And …
“We’ll give you that here soon, but I’m not ready to give it to today.”
The team certainly has several solid options to choose from – J.A. Happ, Masahiro Tanaka, and James Paxton. The three veterans are likely to be on the shortlist for the privilege, but only one can earn it.
Tanaka will likely get the start for the Yankees, as his experience and seniority allows him to be the favorite.
“The three guys … I’d feel good handing all of them the ball in that situation,†Boone said. “Masa has clearly shown throughout his life that he’s really good in the big spot, and certainly in an Opening Day situation, he wouldn’t flinch at it. He’d be prepared.”
“You can guess all you want,†Boone said. “You can probably make some good guesses.â€
The Yankees will be without two essential starters:
Severino is expected to return to the starting pitching rotation in late-April/early-May, but CC Sabathia who’s out recovering from a knee scope and a clogged artery leading to his heart is expected to return in mid-April. With the two pitchers out, the Yanks will have to rely on several younger arms. Players like Jonathan Loaisiga, Luis Cessa, Domingo German, and Chance Adams will all likely see work in their absence.
Despite the short-term losses, having three quality pitchers to maintain the rotation makes life a bit easier. Tanaka, 30, was 12-5 last season with a 3.75 ERA. In past Opening Days, he’s 0-2 with a 9.48 ERA (12.1 IP, 13 runs). Not too good for the Japanese product.
While Tanaka’s struggles are worrisome, I wouldn’t be concerned over his past. Boone will go with the option he feels most comfortable with, even if the numbers don’t add up the way he prefers.