In a vacuum, ignoring injury, the Yankees’ starting rotation for 2026 looks outstanding. Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Cam Schlittler, Luis Gil, and Will Warren all return, and the Yanks just recently re-signed Ryan Yarbrough. That’s six legitimate starting pitchers and a guy who was pretty successful as a spot starter/swingman for New York last season. And I didn’t even mention Clarke Schmidt, as he may not pitch at all in 2026.

Unfortunately, Cole and Rodón will both start the season on the IL, unlikely to debut for a couple of months (especially Cole), and it’s not as though the youngsters are foolproof either. Perhaps there is a need for more starting pitching after all. And wouldn’t you know it? An old friend just declined his mutual option and qualifying offer, allowing him

See Full Page