The rhythm of a Major League Baseball season often ebbs and flows unpredictably, and for the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Angels, Tuesday night's rainout in the Bronx was a classic example of the sport's capricious nature. This unplanned interruption has compelled both teams to rethink their strategies, particularly concerning their starting rotations.
Tuesday’s game postponement came on the heels of a day off for the Yankees on Monday, giving Yankees manager Aaron Boone additional time to concoct a new game plan. The new schedule forced Boone to make a strategic choice: skip Marcus Stroman's scheduled start. Originally set to pitch on Tuesday, Stroman, who last took the mound on Friday, will now be returning to action on Sunday, August 11. This unscheduled eight-day rest period could serve as a critical downtime for Stroman.
"I just felt like there'd be some benefit in Stro having a couple of bullpens to work through some things," Boone explained when asked about the rationale behind this decision. His words hint at underlying concerns and the desire to see the pitcher regroup and refocus.
Given the Yankees are facing the challenge of a doubleheader on Wednesday, Boone's decision appears well-calculated. With a plethora of available arms, including Luis Gil, Nestor Cortes, Carlos Rodón, and Gerrit Cole, Boone enjoys the luxury of flexibility. This depth allows him to navigate the forthcoming games with a strategic edge. For the second game on Wednesday, Boone has slated Will Warren to take the mound, thus spreading the workload efficiently among his pitchers.
This calculated deployment of pitchers aligns with the Yankees' broader rotational strategy for the days ahead. However, the performance arc of Marcus Stroman remains a focal point. Initially, Stroman showcased his prowess, posting a commendable 6-2 record with a 2.82 ERA over his first 14 starts. Lately, though, his form has waned. In his last eight starts, Stroman has managed just one win against four losses, his ERA ballooning to 6.87.
Stroman's recent outings have been troubled. Against Boston, he allowed five runs on nine hits in a mere 3 1/3 innings. Similarly, the Toronto Blue Jays took him for seven runs on eight hits in just 2 2/3 innings. His fastball velocity, usually averaging at 89.8 miles per hour, had dipped to 88.8 miles per hour, a subtle yet concerning sign for any pitcher.
Despite these setbacks, Boone remains optimistic. "I'm not too concerned about it. I pay attention to it, but I felt like he's in a pretty good place right now as far as some of the things he's been working through and some of the video he's looked at, then how his bullpen went [Tuesday]. So, no, not too concerned. And physically he feels good," Boone commented, reflecting on Stroman's current state of mind and physical readiness.
The Yankees, holding a 67-46 record, sit at the top of the AL East by a narrow half-game margin. This advantageous position adds a layer of strategic importance to each managerial decision, making each game crucial as the season progresses.
The unfolding narrative of this rainout—seemingly a mere blip on the radar—has far-reaching implications for the Yankees. Stroman’s extended rest period, the strategic deployment of pitchers for the doubleheader, and Boone’s confident yet cautious approach all intertwine, painting a vivid picture of a team finely balancing strategy and performance amid the season's inherent unpredictability.