The Yankees are gearing up for the new season with their bullpen lineup set, but Luis Gil won't be part of it just yet. The 2024 AL Rookie of the Year is starting his season in Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, as the Yankees opt for a four-man rotation to kick things off.
Gil, at 27, showed promise with a 2-1 record and a 4.66 ERA over 19 1/3 innings this spring. However, after pitching only 57 innings last season, the plan is to get him more innings in Triple-A.
Manager Aaron Boone is optimistic about Gil's development, emphasizing his physical prime and recent strong performances. Gil will have live throwing sessions in Florida before joining the Triple-A rotation, with an eye on stepping up when the Yankees need a fifth starter.
Boone noted, "He might be a bit disappointed, but he's in a great place physically and mentally. We believe his strength and conditioning will translate into better performances based on his last outing."
Meanwhile, the Yankees have finalized their bullpen with Cade Winquest, Brent Headrick, and Jake Bird. Headrick impressed with a 2.57 ERA and 12 strikeouts in seven innings this spring. Bird, on the other hand, delivered 16 strikeouts in 10 innings with a 1.20 WHIP.
Winquest's inclusion is particularly intriguing. As the Yankees' first Rule 5 Draft pick since 2011, he brings potential after a solid performance with Double-A Springfield, boasting a 3.19 ERA and 42 strikeouts in 42 1/3 innings.
Boone expressed confidence in Winquest, saying, "We see a lot of upside and believe now is the time to give him this opportunity."
The decision to send Gil to Triple-A wasn't unexpected, as Boone and Gil have been in constant communication. The move isn't a critique of Gil's spring performance but rather a strategic step to hone his skills further.
The Yankees are eager to see Gil continue his upward trajectory and compete for a spot in the starting rotation as the season progresses. Boone added, "We expect him to be in the rotation, but there's fierce competition, and it's crucial for him to keep progressing as he has since camp began."