Carlos Rodón Takes Opening Day Mound for Yankees, May Debut New Sinker

Opening Day Starter:: Rodón gets the nod for the Yankees due to Gerrit Cole's Tommy John surgery recovery.

New Pitch Alert:: He has been working on a sinker (or one-seam fastball) this spring to add variety to his pitch mix, which primarily featured a four-seam fastball and slider.

Improved Secondary Pitches:: Reports suggest increased confidence in his changeup during spring training.

Why this matters:: Adding a reliable sinker and improving his changeup could make Rodón less predictable. Opponents hit his four-seam fastball well last season (.262 AVG, .514 SLG), so diversifying is key for sustained success, especially stepping into the ace role.

Historical Context:: Rodón, a former high school star in North Carolina and standout at NC State, was previously drafted by the Brewers (his Opening Day opponent) before ultimately signing with the White Sox. He has prior Opening Day start experience from his time in Chicago.

Establishing the Fastball: Using his four-seamer effectively inside to right-handers to set up his slider.

Commanding Down: Working the bottom of the strike zone to induce ground balls, playing to the Yankees' improved infield defense.

Landing the Slider: Throwing his slider for strikes, especially low and away to the lefty-heavy lineup, to counter their patient approach.

Emotional Control: Channeling the Opening Day energy effectively, maintaining focus throughout the start rather than peaking too early, drawing on lessons learned from previous postseason outings.

Q: Why is Carlos Rodón starting Opening Day instead of Gerrit Cole?

Q: What new pitch might Rodón use this season?

Q: How did Rodón look in spring training?

Rodón's performance is vital for the Yankees, particularly with Cole out.

Keep an eye on whether he uses the new sinker and how effective it is.

His ability to command his pitches against a patient Brewers lineup and manage the excitement of Opening Day will be crucial indicators.

Rodón's path demonstrates the development and perseverance often required at the highest level of sports.

Joyce, Greg. "Yankees’ Carlos Rodón might unveil new pitch in Opening Day start." *New York Post*, March 27, 2025. https://nypost.com/2025/03/27/sports/carlos-rodon-may-unveil-new-sinker-for-yankees-opening-day-start/?ref=yanuki.com{:}

Brody, Peter. "Keys for Carlos Rodón on Opening Day." *Pinstripe Alley*, March 27, 2025. https://www.pinstripealley.com/2025/3/27/24658913/yankees-keys-carlos-rodon-opening-day-brewers-analysis-fastball-slider-changeup-sinker?ref=yanuki.com{:}

Stevens, Nick. "From Holly Springs to the Bronx: Carlos Rodon to start Opening Day for the Yankees." *HighSchoolOT*, March 26, 2025. https://www.highschoolot.com/from-holly-springs-to-the-bronx-carlos-rodon-to-start-opening-day-for-the-yankees/21918375/?ref=yanuki.com{:}