$25 million! That’s the reported value of Jordan Montgomery’s deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Had New York Yankees signed him, Jordan would’ve cost them $52.5 million. So it’s quite understandable why the Pinstripes lost out on Gumby. Still, the loss stings (at least to the Yankee Nation). Let bygones be bygones, because what truly matters is what lies ahead. At least, now there’s clarity regarding the pitching staff of the Yankees…Right?

Before Gerrit Cole’s injury, that question would’ve been instantly answered. However, his absence has created a major hole. While the team announced Luis Gil  as their No.5 starter, one wonders whether Aaron Boone will go for a more bullpen-heavy approach for the next month and a half. While that may be surprising, there’s another major shock waiting for the Yankee Nation.

A world-beating lineup or temporary relief for the New York Yankees

The moment Montgomery’s signing was announced, the Yankees fanbase immediately felt a little pain in their chest. Once again their hopes had been zapped due to the inactivity of their team. However, while it was a cause of frustration it also showed the immense confidence that Aaron Boone has on his roster. 

Gerrit Cole’s absence has suddenly raised the profile of nearly every Yankees pitcher. While it was expected that Carlos Rodon would lead in his absence, it seems Boone trusts Nestor Cortes Jr. more. But though Cortes will start the Opening Day fixture, that doesn’t make Rodon’s position any lower as he remains the favored No.2 for the team. In short, the current lineup of the Yankees looks somewhat like this:

1. Nestor Cortes 

2. Carlos Rodon

3. Marcus Stroman

4. Clarke Schmidt 

5. Luis Gil 

While there isn’t a bonafide superstar among them, there’s enough quality to expect at least a competitive display by the Yankees. So why is it that despite such quality the Bombers are being predicted to finish last in the AL East?

Is there any logic behind the Bronx Bombers’ awful prediction?

The Yankees fanbase lost its minds after it saw that Baseball-Reference predicted that they’d finish last in the AL East with just 72 wins against 90 losses. So why is it that despite trading the likes of Juan Soto and signing Marcus Stroman, the Pinstripes are expected to finish even lower than last year? The answer is simply because predictions are made by utilizing past data. 

Last season Rodon had his career’s worst numbers. Similarly, Cortes was injured for almost half of 2023. Schmidt’s great season was relative to his personal history but in overall league terms, it was average. And Luis Gil is just coming back from a Tommy John surgery. 

Perhaps that’s why fans had been demanding Monty’s signing. But now that that ship is sailed, the Yankees have to rely on their current lineup. Will the Yankees prove the predictions wrong? With just one day to go till the season opener – the answer’s nearer than ever.

Read more: How Does the Yankees Rotation Look with Luis Gil?