On January 19th, my colleague at EmpireSportsMedia.com, writer Nathan Solomon, published an article supporting the idea of trading Yankees’ pitcher Domingo German, I would like to present an opposing viewport as to why we should not make that trade. I will use some of the same points Solomon made to support my reasoning.
First, in a fill-in position, taking over for the injured and rehabbing Luis Severino, German surprised us in several ways by going 18-4 on a season shortened by his suspension for breaking MLB rules on domestic violence. Had he not been suspended, he could have had a 20 game winning season and had a significant impact on the Yankee postseason.
One season should not be considered a benchmark for future performance, but an 18-4 season is not something to disregard. His ERA of 4.03 was higher than the Yankees would like to see but is not unusual for a young pitcher that has not yet reached his prime. Many young pitchers tire as the year progresses, and their ERA often rises. German won his first three games of the season with an ERA of 1.006. His last three games would see him losing 2 of 3 and with an ERA of 4.11.
I agree with Soloman that his record and possible future greatness would bring a handsome return for the Yankees, but that is the same reason to keep him. He should be as attractive to the Yankees as any team that would consider acquiring him.
The issue of domestic violence is undoubtedly concerning. However, considering the Yankees concern over Aroldis Chapman’s domestic situation, it is doubtful the Yankees will take a different stance with German. There is no question that the Yankees are stacked with starting pitching possibilities, and Montgomery will most likely get the chance to prove himself starting in that fifth spot in the rotation. As far as J.A. Happ is concerned, the Yankees would like to move him off the payroll before opening day.
It is negative to assume that there will be future domestic problems with German. I prefer to believe he has learned his lesson and will not put his future career in harm’s way. German has the tools to become the Yankees’ next great pitcher. He is a five-pitch pitcher with a devastating curveball, a four-seamer in the mid 90’s a high 80’s change, steep sinker, and a seldom-used slider.
Keep in mind that he is two years younger than the Yankee’s new ace Gerrit Cole and of the Yankee pitching staff, German is the only one to come close to Cole’s 2019 record.Â