Ahead of the season, many New York Yankees fans were chomping at the bit to see their starting pitching rotation get to work. They had signed Max Fried over the winter, and between him, Gerrit Cole, and 2024 AL Rookie of the Year Award winner Luis Gil, they had a three-headed monster.
Unfortunately, it would soon be revealed that Luis Gil would miss a big chunk of the season after he sustained a high-grade lat strain in February. The fanbase would also learn they would be without Cole for the season after he underwent Tommy John surgery in March.
However, Fried has held things down quite well, and other pitchers have stepped up. They hold the top spot in the American League Wild Card race, but could get a whole lot better next season.
Yankees advised to keep a close eye on former Cy Young winner this winter
While the Yankees are not at risk of losing any of their starting pitchers, they could consider making some upgrades after the season in free agency. Some quality starters will be free agents, and there are others who have an opt-out option and will need to make a decision soon.
Shane Bieber is one of these pitchers with a decision looming regarding his opt-out with the Toronto Blue Jays. If he does, he is somebody that Sports Illustrated's Patrick McAvoy believes the Yankees should target.
"If he were to opt out, he's a guy who could take the rotation to another level. He's a former Cy Young Award winner with a 3.25 ERA. If available, he'll be one of the top pitchers out there this offseason and get a much smaller deal than someone like Framber Valdez."