Keys to victory
Cole down stretch: Even before the ace Gerrit Cole’s elbow became a camp concern, rotation depth was an issue. Now, the Yankees must operate without their ace until roughly June 1, due to nerve inflammation. It’s not the worst scenario if Cole can make 20 starts and perform near his 2023 Cy Young Award-winning form. But the Yankees need LHPs Carlos Rodon and Nestor Cortes to revert to their All-Star status of 2022 following injury-filled 2023 seasons. If Clarke Schmidt takes another step up in his development and Luis Gil proves to be a stabilizing force following two seasons lost to Tommy John rehab, the Yanks can hold serve until Cole returns.
Healthy Judge: Much is riding on the captain’s health after he missed 42 team games last season due to torn ligaments in his right big toe. This spring, Judge dealt with core soreness, bringing to light the Yankees’ fragile pennant hopes without him. The Juan Soto-Judge dynamic is expected to fuel a lineup that could score 800 runs, with a healthy DJ LeMahieu leading off, Anthony Rizzo rid of his post-concussion symptoms and Anthony Volpe now a sophomore.
Bullpen formula: Last season, Yankees relievers’ combined 3.34 ERA was the best in MLB. As Clay Holmes moves into his free agent walk year, Jonathan Loaisiga might inherit the closer’s role next year, but his 2024 workload will be managed closely due to injury history. Michael King and Wandy Peralta have departed. LHP Victor Gonzalez will be key. Hard-throwing Nick Burdi might be a find.