Injury Strikes Again: Yankees' Luis Gil Placed on Injured List
The New York Yankees have hit another roadblock in an injury-laden season, losing one of their promising rookie right-handers, Luis Gil, to the 15-day injured list due to a lower back strain. The news emerged after Tuesday’s game against the Cleveland Guardians, in which Gil was pulled out after just three innings on the mound.
Manager Aaron Boone disclosed that Gil initially mentioned experiencing tightness. However, further examination revealed a strain, casting a shadow over the team's pitching staff. “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,” Gil explained.
The unfortunate incident occurred in the fourth inning when Gil summoned the trainer to the mound following a pitch. His early exit was indicative of underlying concerns, as he had allowed three runs, three hits, and issued six walks over 78 pitches before signaling for assistance.
Gil, 26, has been a crucial part of the Yankees' rotation this season. He stepped in when ace Gerrit Cole was sidelined with a nerve issue in his elbow during spring training. Despite Cole's return in June, Gil's performance earned him a continued spot in the rotation. Over 24 starts this season, Gil has maintained an impressive 3.39 ERA, striking out 144 batters across 124 2/3 innings, marking a career-high.
“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,” added a concerned Gil.
His absence compounds the Yankees’ struggles, who already have three starting pitchers on the injured list. The latest setback has forced the team to call up Warren to fill Gil’s roster spot. Further complicating their rotation, Poteet has just started a minor-league rehab assignment, while Schmidt is expected to start his rehab in the coming days.
The Yankees were also cautious during the trade deadline, stepping away from a deal with the Detroit Tigers for Jack Flaherty due to concerns over his medicals. This leaves the team navigating a precarious situation with their pitching depth as they strive towards postseason aspirations.
Despite the challenges, the Yankees have maintained a commendable 73-53 record, entering Wednesday's play half a game behind the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East. Gil’s contributions, especially given his recovery from Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for most of the 2022 and 2023 seasons, have been pivotal in keeping the team competitive.
In facing these adversities, the Yankees must rely on their depth and resilience. The road ahead will undoubtedly test their mettle as they continue to vie for a postseason berth. Gil's loss will be felt deeply, both for his pitching prowess and the stability he brought to the rotation. But with a strong team spirit and a cautious approach to player health, they move forward, seeking to turn setbacks into comebacks.