Miami, Florida – Dominican pitcher Luis Gil is ready for his return to the mound in the Major Leagues. This Sunday, Gil will start the game for the New York Yankees against the Marlins at loanDepot park. This encounter will mark the debut of the right-hander this season, almost a year after receiving the American League Rookie of the Year award. An achievement not seen in the Yankees since Dave Righetti in 1981. The last time Gil pitched in the MLB was February 28. On that occasion, he cut short a bullpen session after only five pitches due to a high-grade strain in his right latissimus dorsi. What was initially expected to be a six-week absence was prolonged for several months. The right-hander resumed facing hitters at the end of June and made four rehabilitation starts in the minor leagues. The last one was last Tuesday with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he threw 75 pitches against Nashville.
In the previous season, Gil had a 15-7 record with a 3.50 ERA in 29 starts. In addition, he participated in two postseason outings, including one in the World Series against the Dodgers. With his return, the Yankees regain a crucial element for their rotation in their fight for a postseason spot.The rehabilitation process has been smooth, without setbacks. He is practically ready to work with a full pitch count. I think he is prepared for this.
Aaron Boone, Manager