The New York Yankees have started the 2024 season on a dominant note, boasting a 12-4 record and a plus-21 run differential. Despite missing their ace pitcher Gerrit Cole, who is expected to be sidelined for the first few months of the season, the Yankees are excelling with Nestor Cortes Jr. leading the rotation. Cortes delivered an exceptional performance against the Miami Marlins, throwing eight shutout innings with just two hits allowed and six strikeouts. While his latest start was more average, Cortes showcased some fun and quirky moments on the mound during a recent game against the Cleveland Guardians.
During the Yankees’ game against the Guardians, Cortes presented one of the stranger pitches in MLB history. After hesitating mid-windup, Cortes appeared to fake a throw before quickly firing the ball to home plate. Despite the novelty of the pitch, it ultimately resulted in a fielding error by a teammate and allowed the Guardians to score. While Cortes struggled in the game, giving up five hits and four earned runs across four innings, his lightheartedness on the mound is a positive indication for the Yankees. After a challenging 2023 season marked by injury and poor performance, Cortes seems to be in better form this year and will be a crucial part of the team’s rotation in Cole’s absence.
The Yankees’ strong start to the season is particularly impressive given the absence of Gerrit Cole, their star pitcher. Cole, who is expected to miss several months due to injury, has managed to avoid Tommy John surgery, a rarity in a season marked by numerous pitchers undergoing the procedure. Nestor Cortes Jr. has stepped up as a leader in the rotation, showcasing his abilities with a standout performance against the Marlins. While his subsequent start was less impressive, Cortes displayed a playful attitude on the mound during a game against the Guardians, signaling a positive shift from his struggles in the previous season.
Despite facing challenges in recent seasons, Nestor Cortes Jr. appears to be in better form this year and is playing a critical role in the Yankees’ rotation. Cortes had a strong 2022 season with a 2.44 ERA in over 150 innings pitched but struggled in 2023 due to shoulder issues, ending his season prematurely. With a renewed sense of health and confidence, Cortes is contributing to the team’s success in the absence of Gerrit Cole and bringing a lightheartedness to the mound that is resonating positively with fans and teammates alike. As the Yankees continue their impressive start to the 2024 season, Cortes’s performance will be closely watched as a key factor in their ongoing success.
The Yankees face the Toronto Blue Jays in their upcoming series, looking to maintain their momentum and solidify their position as one of the top teams in the league. With Nestor Cortes Jr. leading the rotation and showcasing both skill and humor on the mound, the Yankees are in a strong position to continue their winning streak and overcome any obstacles that come their way. As they navigate the challenges of the MLB season, including injuries and fierce competition, the Yankees’ resilience and determination are evident in their early successes, setting the stage for an exciting and promising year ahead for the team and their loyal fan base.
