Yankees’ Gil Faces MRI Amid Shoulder Concerns, Brubaker’s Recovery Complicated

NEW YORK, NY — New York Yankees pitcher Luis Gil will undergo an MRI to assess shoulder tightness reported during a bullpen session on Wednesday. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed the news to reporters, indicating that concern regarding Gil’s health is rising following his impressive return in 2024.

Gil, who earned the American League Rookie of the Year honors after a successful season, was a crucial part of the Yankees’ rotation, especially during the absence of Gerrit Cole. The right-hander posted a 3.50 earned run average over 29 starts last year, contributing 151 2/3 innings and displaying a strikeout rate of 26.8%. Despite a high walk rate of 12.1%, he managed to navigate through difficulties and solidified his place in the rotation.

“We’re hopeful that it’s something minor,” Boone said during the press conference, emphasizing the team’s cautious approach amid the uncertainty. Gil’s history with injuries adds to the weight of the situation. He previously missed most of 2022 and 2023 due to Tommy John surgery, making his current condition all the more critical.

In addition to Gil, fellow Yankees pitcher JT Brubaker is also under scrutiny. Brubaker, who was acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates, is recovering from three broken ribs sustained while avoiding a comebacker in practice last week. His recovery timeline remains uncertain as well.

Brubaker has yet to pitch for the Yankees, having already dealt with setbacks from Tommy John surgery and an oblique strain that delayed his return. His previous performance with the Pirates included a 4.99 ERA over three seasons, and his return to the mound has been closely monitored.

The Yankees now face potential gaps in their rotation, particularly with Gil and Brubaker’s situations. Boone acknowledged the challenge, stating, “It’s never ideal to face such setbacks, but we have depth that can help us navigate through.”

Veteran Marcus Stroman, who was thought to be on the trading block this winter, may step into the rotation if needed. Given the recent injuries, the Yankees could reconsider their plans to trade him, with Boone indicating that the team’s strategy might shift to keep experienced arms in place.

“Right now, we need to focus on flexibility in our rotation,” Boone said. “We have the resources to handle it, but we also know that keeping everyone healthy is paramount.”

As the Yankees eye a strong season in 2025, the focus shifts to optimizing their pitching staff. With the potential absence of both Gil and Brubaker, they may need to rely more heavily on available arms within their roster, including Will Warren and others who could step up amid these circumstances.

Questions surrounding gymnastics in the Yankees’ rotation continue, especially considering the team’s significant payroll versus the depth challenges they face annually. For the time being, they remain hopeful for a positive MRI outcome for Gil.