His time was not quite here yet. Luis Gil had made just seven appearances for the New York Yankees, with a four inning spot start on his ledger for this year. However, he had fared well in his outings in 2021, giving him a place in the Yankees’ future plans.
Those plans are now on hold. Gil will undergo Tommy John surgery on Thursday, ending his 2022 season and putting his 2023 campaign in question.
The future has to wait for Luis Gil and New York Yankees
Gil had struggled this season at both the major league level and in Triple-A. He had allowed four runs on five hits and two walks over four innings in his spot start, striking out five. His Triple-A performance was not much better as he had posted a 7.89 ERA and a 1.662 WHiP in his 21.2 innings, striking out 31 batters with 15 walks while allowing six homers.
In the short term, this leaves the Yankees without a real option as a sixth starter. Their most likely option at Triple-A, Deivi Garcia, has been atrocious this season as he has struggled with his command. Michael King has become the Yankees’ fireman and is far more valuable in the bullpen. The same argument could be made for Clarke Schmidt, who also seems to have found his place. At best, the Yankees may need to hope that they continue to remain healthy until Domingo German is ready.
This also pushes back Gil’s ascension to a full time major league role. The Yankees rotation has been healthy this season, as the same five pitchers have started every game outside of that spot start. However, it is highly unlikely that will continue moving forward.
Those spot starts, and his showing in 2021, were valuable experience for Gil. They were also a way for the Yankees to see what they have, especially as they look towards what their future rotation will look like. Now, at least as it comes to Gil, that future may have to wait until 2024.
Luis Gil will undergo Tommy John surgery on Thursday. The New York Yankees pitching prospect may not see his future happen until 2024.