Carlos Rodon Struck Out 8 and Gave Up Just 1 Run: The Yankees' Ace Is Coming Back

Carlos Rodon is rounding into form, and the Yankees can finally breathe a little easier. The 33-year-old left-hander took the mound Thursday night for his second minor league rehab outing against the Portland Sea Dogs, and he looked like the ace New York signed him to be. Eight strikeouts over 5⅓ innings. One run allowed. Five hits, zero walks. This is exactly what the Yankees needed to see.

Rodon's Rehab Path Is Right On Track

Rodon fired 51 of 75 pitches for strikes while pitching for Double-A Somerset in the Eastern League. The only damage came in the fifth inning when Miguel Bleis homered leading off, but that was it. Nothing else. For a guy coming back from elbow surgery, that's the kind of outing that gets everyone in the organization excited.

This was his second time out since starting the season on the 15-day injured list. Back on April 24, Rodon had thrown 4⅓ scoreless innings for High-A Hudson Valley, using 65 pitches. He's building up, getting his arm right, and proving he can still get outs at a high level.

A Long Road Back From Surgery

Here's the reality: Rodon had elbow surgery last October 15 to remove loose bodies and shave a bone spur. That's serious stuff. Then in late March, while throwing at the Yankees' complex in Florida, he felt tightness in his right hamstring. That setback had to be frustrating for everyone involved. But two consecutive strong outings suggest he's actually healing the right way this time.

The Yankees need Rodon healthy and pitching deep into games if they're going to compete. Performances like Thursday night give you real hope that's about to happen.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.