The downfall of the New York Yankees this postseason could be their starting pitching. Fortunately, they gained back ace, Luis Severino just several weeks ago after missing a majority of the year with shoulder issues. His return will surely help the rotation and give them a much-needed boost for the playoffs. However, they have struggled this season as a unit at times.
The decision to extend J.A. Happ now seems like a bad one considering the options that were available on the market. Patrick Corbin was heavily linked to the Yankees before signing on with the Washington Nationals. He has a collective 3.05 ERA and would have led the team in overall efficiency and productivity this season.
The Yankees still managed to crawl their way to a 102-56 record despite a plethora of injuries and inconsistencies across the team.
The New York Yankees must sure up the starting rotation:
Next off-season provides an opportunity for the Yankees to shore up there starting rotation. Astros co-ace Gerrit Cole is a very intriguing option that general manager Brian Cashman will undoubtedly consider.
Cole earned $13.5 million via arbitration this season, and he owns a 19-5 record with a 2.5 to ERA in 32 starts this year for Houston. He has only walked 46 batters in 207 1/3 innings.
Adding a player of Cole’s quality to the Yankees rotation would make them one of the most feared in the league. Imagine this — Cole, Severino, Tanaka, Paxton, Happ.
While injuries will arise because that is simply what happens to the Yankees, this rotation would be feared and intimidating for any opposing team. During the 2017-18 season, the Yankees were interested in Cole and were engaged with the Pittsburgh Pirates in a potential trade, but they were unwilling to surrender third baseman Miguel Andujar in a deal. This time around, I imagine they will be more insistent on his services.