URGENT UPDATE: The New York Yankees have announced their pitching plans for the American League Division Series (ALDS) against the Toronto Blue Jays, set to kick off on October 7, 2023. Following a triumphant Wild Card Series victory over the Boston Red Sox, the spotlight now shines on Luis Gil, who will take the mound for Game 1 in Toronto.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed Gil’s start during a Friday workout at Rogers Centre, declaring, “Just feel like he’s ready for this, he’s in line for it.” This pivotal decision comes after Gil was sidelined during the Wild Card round, allowing Will Warren to serve as a bullpen option instead.
In the Wild Card Series, the Yankees’ starting rotation demonstrated their prowess, with Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, and Cam Schlittler combining for 21 1/3 innings and surrendering only three runs. As the team prepares for the best-of-five series against the Blue Jays, they are eager to maintain this momentum.
Game 1 poses a significant challenge for Gil, who is returning from a high-grade lat strain suffered earlier in the season. Despite posting a solid 3.32 ERA in 11 starts since his return, concerns linger over his command, as his strikeout and whiff rates have declined sharply.
“I feel really good,” Gil stated through an interpreter. “Right now you just have to go and battle… I think experience plays a big part of that.”
Boone echoed confidence in Gil, emphasizing, “He’s been really effective… The bottom line is he’s gotten results even since he’s come back.” The Yankees are banking on Gil’s ability to deliver under pressure and set the tone for the series.
Following Gil’s start, Fried is scheduled to pitch in Game 2 on October 8, with Rodón and Schlittler expected to follow in subsequent games. Boone has yet to finalize the rest of the ALDS roster, stating, “We’re still meeting on that stuff.” As the day unfolds, decisions on pitchers and position players will be crucial for the Yankees.
As anticipation builds for this ALDS matchup, Yankees fans are hopeful that Gil’s start will mark a turning point in their playoff journey. With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, the Yankees are determined to showcase their strength against a familiar foe in the Blue Jays.
Stay tuned for more updates as the ALDS progresses and the Yankees aim for postseason glory!