1. New York Yankees
Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Nestor Cortes Jr., Luis Severino, Frankie Montas/Domingo German
Number one at last! The Yankees have finally put together a truly spectacular rotation, one that could potentially lead them to their first World Series title in 13 years.
Nestor Cortes Jr. broke out last season, using a multitude of arm slots and wind-ups to fool hitters. Free agent acquisition Carlos Rodón makes this group truly deadly, completing a reliable and healthy top three that is capable of carrying this team all season. Luis Severino is an incredible option at the four spot, but I do believe it’s his rightful place on a World Series contending team. He’s just too injury-prone to be relied upon for both the regular and postseason. Gerrit Cole was able further establish himself as a true frontline ace, finally showcasing elite playoff pitching against the Cleveland Guardians this postseason. Cole will lead this juggernaut rotation, still searching for his first Cy Young Award.
Can Frankie Montas turn it around? Before being traded to New York at the deadline, he was an elite starter with the Athletics. Since he’s come to New York, it’s been nothing short of an absolute disaster. Montas will be out for at least the first month of the season recovering from shoulder problems. If he continues to struggle, the Yankees will fall back on Domingo German, Luis Gil and Deivi Garcia for additional depth.
With the AL East having three of the top five rotations on this list, it’s clear an elite rotation is necessary for competing in this powerhouse division. With holes at shortstop and left field, can this rotation make up for these weaknesses within the Yankees lineup?
Just missed: Seattle Mariners, Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Texas Rangers