​Once again, the Yankees’ starting-pitching depth will be put to the test. Ahead of Friday’s game against the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium, New York placed left-hander Carlos Rodón on the 15-day injured list with left elbow inflammation. Rodón underwent a procedure last October after the playoffs to remove a bone spur and loose bodies near his pitching elbow. His 2026 debut came on May 10, and he most recently pitched Sunday in Boston, lasting five innings in a no-decision. In nine starts this season, the 33-year-old is 4-2 with a 3.30 ERA.
Also prior to Friday’s game, the Yankees recalled third baseman Ryan McMahon and center fielder Trent Grisham from the IL, both back in action after throat infection and hamstring strain, respectively, and optioned utilityman Oswaldo Cabrera back to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Rodón’s spot could be filled by right-hander Elmer Rodríguez, who last started for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Thursday. Rodríguez, 22, has appeared in four games for the Yankees, most recently on June 21, posting an 0-2 record with a 4.76 ERA in the majors.
Friday night’s game will feature ace Gerrit Cole on the mound as the Yankees aim to end a season-high seven-game skid. Cole, like Rodón, has been slowed by injury rehab efforts—Tommy John surgery delayed the start of the 2026 season for him as well. Clarke Schmidt is also in the rehab mix, scheduled to throw live hitters next week for the first time since his 2025 procedure. Max Fried, who is sidelined by a left elbow bone bruise, has begun throwing live batting practice, but his return to the Yankees’ rotation isn’t expected until shortly after the All-Star break.