The New York Yankees face another setback as they lose one of their promising rookie right-handers, Luis Gil, to the 15-day injured list due to a lower back strain.
This incident occurred during Tuesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians, where Gil was pulled out after pitching just three innings. Manager Aaron Boone revealed that Gil had initially described the issue as tightness, but further examination confirmed the strain.
“I tried to work through it, but you don't want to force the issue and make it worse. I saw the doctor here and told me to take it day-by-day,” said Gil, reflecting on the severity of his injury. He called the trainer to the mound after a pitch in the fourth inning, leading to his early exit. “I've never felt anything like that. I'm a little worried because you're coming out of the game because something's not right. But at the same time, you have to take it day by day and see how I feel tomorrow,” he added.
Gil, 26, allowed three runs on three hits and issued six walks, amassing a total of 78 pitches before leaving the game. Despite the early departure, Gil has had a noteworthy season, posting a 3.39 ERA with 144 strikeouts over 124 2/3 innings across 24 starts. Gil earned a spot in the Yankees' rotation after ace Gerrit Cole went down with a nerve issue in his elbow during spring training, and he managed to secure his position upon Cole’s return in June.
This injury couldn't come at a worse time for the Yankees, who now have three starting pitchers on the injured list. Previously, the team backed away from a trade deal for Jack Flaherty with the Detroit Tigers at the July 30 trade deadline due to concerns over his medicals. With Gil out, the Yankees have called up Warren to take his roster spot. In addition, Poteet has begun a minor-league rehab assignment, and Schmidt is expected to start his minor-league rehab in the coming days.
As the Yankees sit with a 73-53 record entering Wednesday's play, they find themselves half a game behind the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East. Gil’s contribution this season has been integral, logging a career-high 124 2/3 innings this season and surpassing his previous mark of 108 2/3 innings set in 2021. His performance has been especially commendable considering he missed most of 2022 and 2023 recovering from Tommy John surgery.
However, the Yankees are navigating through an injury-laden period. Gil's absence will undoubtedly be felt. The team will need to maintain their focus and find ways to compensate for the loss as they push towards the postseason.