Carlos Rodón is back, yet the Yankees are staring down a rough night in Baltimore. He’s returning from elbow inflammation, and that high walk rate could really bite the team. The Orioles are eyeing the last AL Wild Card spot, so they need every single victory they can get. This matchup kicks off a three-game road trip for New York at Camden Yards.
It sets the tone for a week that defines their playoff hopes.
Rodón’s Risky Comeback
Rodón has been missing from the big-league rotation since June 28th. He’s already returned from injury twice this year, which makes folks wonder about his stamina. Pinstripe Alley suggests he’ll probably be limited to 70-75 pitches. That isn’t enough to go deep into a game against a lineup that hits hard. His 3.30 ERA across 49.1 innings this year looks great on paper, but that 13.4 percent walk rate tells a totally different story. Control issues at this level are a death sentence for any pitcher trying to find his rhythm.
Baz’s History with the Bombers
Shane Baz is a former Ray, aged 27, currently riding a three-win season. He’s posting a 3.34 FIP, which shows he’s been much better than his ERA suggests. This marks Shane Baz’s eighth career start against the Yankees, and the results have been ugly for New York. The Yankees hold a 7.00 ERA against him. They’ve launched 11 home runs in just 27.0 innings pitched against his stuff. Even though Baz has struggled in the past, the Yankees can’t afford to give up free runs to a pitcher who knows exactly how to adjust.
Can the Yankees Survive the Trip
The Orioles are sitting three games under .500, but they’re fighting for their lives in the standings. They’ll bring a lineup that has already punished Baz’s opponents. The Yankees need to protect Rodón early. First pitch is 6:35 pm ET. Fans can catch the game on YES and MASN. Radio broadcasts are on WFAN 660/101.9 FM and WADO 1280 for the Yankees. Streaming is available on Gotham Sports App and MLB.tv for out-of-market viewers. If Rodón walks too many batters early, the bullpen will have to work overtime.
