Carlos Rodón Transforms Game Amid Challenging Start with Yankees

New York, NY — Carlos Rodón, known as an above-average MLB starter, faced a tough start in his recent season with the New York Yankees. Known for his success with the Chicago White Sox and San Francisco Giants, Rodón had high expectations following his impressive performances in 2021 and 2022.

However, his first seasons in pinstripes were marked by struggles. From 2022 to 2023, Rodón’s earned run average (ERA) and walks plus hits per inning pitched (WHIP) spiked, and his strikeout numbers significantly declined. Injuries at both the beginning and end of the season further complicated his performance, leaving him with a record of 3-8.

In an interview on The Show Podcast with Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman, Rodón reflected on the mental toll of his challenging season. “It was rough. Long drives home, a lot of time in my head, thinking about what’s wrong, why can’t I make this better,” he said. “I wish I was better at the time. But I wasn’t.”

Recognizing the need for change, Rodón evolved his pitch arsenal. Typically known for his fastball and slider, he successfully added a curveball, a sinker, and a changeup to his repertoire. “I don’t give up. I never really have,” Rodón asserted. “It’s just not in my nature.”

This determination has paid off. With his enhanced pitching skills, Rodón has had a stellar start to the current season. He holds the fewest hits allowed per nine innings in the American League, boasting a 7-3 record and a 2.60 ERA with a WHIP of .94.

Rodón’s performance has been pivotal in helping the Yankees secure a strong position at the top of the AL East standings. Yet, he remains focused on a collective goal: returning to the World Series. “I think we have a better team this year,” Rodón stated. “Obviously, we still have to get there. So there’s still games to be won.”