Domingo German has struggled during his time in the Dominican Winter League, but the New York Yankees should not be worried just yet.
The New York Yankees are counting on Domingo German to be a key part of their rotation in 2021. General manager Brian Cashman had referred to German as a number two starter at worst, seemingly downplaying the Yankees’ need for another arm in their rotation. A lot is riding on him when he is eventually able to return from his suspension.
With that being the case, German is looking to get ready for the upcoming season in the Dominican Winter League. However, to this point, the results have been disastrous.
Domingo Germán tiene promedio de ERA de 7.16 (13 ER en 16.1 IP) con 17 hits, 9 walks, 18K en el invierno con #Toros
— Enrique Rojas/ESPN (@Enrique_Rojas1) December 14, 2020
The numbers certainly speak for themselves. In his 16.1 innings, German has allowed 13 earned runs on 17 hits and nine walks. While he has struck out 18 batters, German has not exactly inspired any confidence that he can be what the Yankees hope for.
But these results have to be taken with a grain of salt. German has not pitched since September 18, 2019 when he pitched 2.1 innings out of the bullpen for New York. Due to his ongoing suspension for domestic violence, German is trying to shake off more than a year’s worth of rust.
The Yankees still need help in the rotation even if German is back to form. Luis Severino will not be back until June or July. Jordan Montgomery, Deivi Cruz, and some combination of Michael King, Jonathan Loaisiga, and Clarke Schmidt comprise the rest of the starters. This is not the rotation of a club with championship aspirations.
But that does not mean that the Yankees should be concerned with German just yet. If he is still struggling late in spring training, then it would be time for New York to re-assess. But to be worried about 16.1 innings in the Winter Leagues, when he has not pitched in over a year, is ridiculous.
Domingo German is working his way back from more than a year away from the game. All that matters for the New York Yankees is that he gets through the Dominican Winter League healthy.