Feb 22, 2025; Dunedin, Florida, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodon (55) throws a pitch in opposition to the Toronto Blue Jays in the course of the first inning at TD Ballpark. Obligatory Credit score: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Photos Left-hander Carlos Rodon was tabbed because the New York Yankees’ Opening Day starter on Friday by supervisor Aaron Boone.
The Yankees open the season at house in opposition to the Milwaukee Brewers on March 27.
A severe harm to ace right-hander Gerrit Cole opened the door for Rodon to land the position. Cole underwent Tommy John surgical procedure on Tuesday.
“It is an honor,” Rodon informed reporters. “I am excited. Simply wish to go on the market and win the sport.”
Boone mentioned left-hander Max Fried will begin the second sport. The previous Atlanta Braves standout signed a eight-year, $218 million free-agent deal within the offseason.
Rodon is getting into the third season of a six-year, $162 million deal. The 32-year-old is 19-17 with a 4.74 ERA in 46 begins with New York. The 2-time All-Star gained a career-best 16 video games final season.
“I really feel like his arsenal continues to evolve — the secondary stuff is getting stronger and stronger, the changeup changing into an actual issue for him now,” Boone mentioned of Rodon.
This might be Rodon’s second Opening Day. He additionally acquired the consideration in 2019 for the Chicago White Sox. Rodon pitched 5 1/3 innings and gave up three runs (two earned) and three hits in a 5-3 loss to the host Kansas Metropolis Royals.
“Truthfully it is simply the primary sport of the season,” Rodon mentioned. “It is one other baseball sport. Take it like one other sport, it simply so occurs to be the primary sport of the 12 months.”
Proper-hander Freddy Peralta will begin for the Brewers.
–Area Stage Media
