The New York Yankees have received worrying news regarding Gerrit Cole after his initial Spring Training outing, as the star pitcher experienced unusual discomfort in his right elbow and is set to undergo an MRI.
Although it’s premature to sound the alarm bells in New York, the Yankees had already been linked to acquiring additional pitching assistance this offseason. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, they were the only team to formally propose a deal to reigning NL Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell.
With Cole’s condition up in the air, the Yankees might intensify their pursuit for pitching reinforcements. If they opt for an immediate replacement for Cole, Christopher Kline of FanSided suggested they consider recruiting six-time All-Star Zack Greinke.
Kline observed, “He may not be the dominant ace of the past, but as a short-term solution for one season, Greinke could potentially fulfill the Yankees’ needs.”
What Could Zack Greinke Bring to the New York Yankees in Gerrit Cole’s Absence?
In his two-decade career in the majors, Greinke has accumulated impressive statistics including a career ERA of 3.49, nearly 3,000 strikeouts, and over 3,389 innings pitched. Alongside multiple All-Star selections, he boasts a Cy Young Award from 2009, six Gold Gloves, and two Silver Slugger Awards.
Entering the 2024 season, Greinke aims to continue his pitching career and is expected to secure a $10 million contract according to Spotrac. However, as highlighted by Kline, his 5.06 ERA during the 2023 season with the Kansas City Royals suggests that the veteran pitcher may not possess the same prowess on the mound as in his prime.
Kline acknowledges Greinke’s durability, pitching over 142 innings despite playing for a struggling team last season. Despite his age and injury history, Greinke maintains a diverse pitching repertoire with exceptional control, evident from his elite walk rate, which ranks in the 98th percentile.
Depending on the outcome of Cole’s injury evaluation, Greinke could still offer value to the Yankees. Kline argues that even if Greinke’s performance declines, he could serve as a bullpen asset by season’s end, with hopes of Cole returning to bolster the rotation for the playoffs. Alternatively, Greinke might summon enough skill to contribute meaningfully to the Yankees’ quest, providing a fitting conclusion to his illustrious career.
Where Else Could the New York Yankees Turn if Gerrit Cole Is Injured?
If Gerrit Cole is anticipated to be sidelined for a substantial portion of the upcoming season, the Yankees may consider acquiring Blake Snell as a replacement, effectively swapping last year’s AL Cy Young winner with his NL counterpart.
Alternatively, as reported by Mike Axisa for CBS Sports, the Yankees could explore internal options within their farm system for a temporary solution. Axisa mentioned Will Warren and Clayton Beeter as potential candidates, with Cody Poteet and Luke Weaver serving as backup plans or providing additional innings.
While there’s no denying Cole’s irreplaceability, the Yankees must navigate through the absence until his return or until a preferable alternative emerges via trade or free agency, as elaborated by Axisa.
Yankees supporters will likely be anxiously awaiting developments, hoping for Cole’s swift return to the mound. However, with concerns over his health, the team may reassess their options, which could include pursuing available pitchers like Zack Greinke.
Jake Mintz expressed some concern during a recent “Baseball Bar-B-Cast” recording, noting Cole’s track record of durability and consistency, which makes his potential absence a significant cause for worry among Yankees fans.
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