The biggest mystery of 2023 was undoubtedly the unexpected fall of Carlos Rodon. Coming off of successive great seasons, the pitcher was expected to at least maintain an average form, but what happened was a shock to all the New York Yankees fans. Few players have experienced the kind of sudden change in fortunes that befell Rodon. But the year’s gone and Rodon’s hoping to find his groove again.

Despite his disastrous 2023, the Yankees have shown belief in Rodon. With the Pinstripes strengthening much of their team this offseason, can a healthy Rodon become that last piece that completes the Pinstripes’ puzzle? 

The route to success for the New York Yankees goes through Carlos Rodon?

MLB Network’s Jon Morosi recently talked about the future of the Yankees after their game-changing offseason. While discussing how additions like Juan Soto have strengthened their roster, the focus shifted toward the pitcher Carlos Rodon. Morosi declared almost immediately that “A healthy Carlos Rodon is typically a very effective Carlos Rodon.” 

“When he’s healthy, he’s one of the better pitchers in the American League. If the Yankees could find a way to get a healthy Rodon and a healthy Nestor Cortes Jr. as well. Then of course you’ve got a reigning Cy Young winner in Gerrit Cole, and you’ve got Marcus Stroman. There’s a lot to like in this Yankees rotation,” Morosi said while being quite positive about the Yankees’ lineup. 

One could argue that 2023 was a giant anomaly in Rodon’s career. Until 2022, the career ERA of the pitcher was 3.60 but last season he exploded to 6.85. Partly because of injury and partly due to the resultant loss of form, Rodon was a shadow of his former self last season. As a result, there can be a case made that 2023 should be forgotten like a bad dream. The Yankees are certainly doing that. 

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They’ve continuously shown their belief in Rodon. GM Brian Cashman has made multiple comments that suggest that the Yankees are ready to allow Rodon to return to his old ways. Because frankly, the team needs him.

Why the Bombers need the pitcher to perform

According to Bryan Hoch, Brian Cashman said that Rodon had reported early to Tampa and was looking good. This should come as good news for the Yankee Nation. Underwhelming pitching was one of the chief reasons why the Pinstripes fell last season. With Gerrit Cole and a newly arrived Marcus Stroman in the mix, an in-form Rodon would create an impressive top-three line. 

Cole’s Cy Young form saved the team last season, but that isn’t sustainable. So the Yankees need every one of their pitchers to step up. Rodon was brought in to be the Robin to Cole’s Batman. It’s time that he starts playing that role. The city of Gotham needs him.

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