Black New York Yankees Classic Notebook

NYYNEWS.com

• Elmer Rodriguez: The Yankees' Pitching Future Starts Now February 20, 2026
  Spring training is here, and the Yankees are giving a significant nod to their future. Elmer Rodriguez, a 22-year-old right-hander, has been handed the starting duties for Friday's exhibition game against the Orioles. This isn't just another preseason matchup; it's a chance to see if the organization’s faith in their young arm is well-placed. Rodriguez […]
• Yankees' Shortstop Shuffle: What McMahon's Move Signals for Volpe February 18, 2026
  The Yankees are dancing around the shortstop position again, but this time it feels different. Adding Ryan McMahon to the mix for some spring training work at shortstop raises questions about the future of Anthony Volpe, who is still aiming to solidify his place in the lineup. Volpe, recovering from a shoulder injury, is expected […]
• Yankees’ Rotation Faces Pressure Amid Injury Concerns February 17, 2026
  As the Yankees gear up for another season, the pressure is mounting on their pitching staff. With key arms like Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rondon sidelined due to elbow issues, the spotlight is squarely on the rest of the rotation to step up. Cam Schlittler, who recently returned to the bullpen mound after a scare […]
• Spencer Jones: A Five-Tool Player in the Making for the Yankees February 16, 2026
  Spring training is upon us, and the Yankees find themselves in an unusual position: they have an outfield logjam that could be described as a blessing and a curse. With big names like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton already locked in, and newcomers Trent Grisham and Cody Bellinger joining the fray, the competition is fierce. […]
• Yankees' Future Rests on Weathers' Health: Can He Deliver? February 15, 2026
  With Ryan Weathers officially in pinstripes, the Yankees’ pitching hopes for 2026 are at a crossroads. The left-hander, acquired from the Miami Marlins this offseason, demonstrated promising velocity during his first live session of spring training, hitting 97 mph consistently. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to his potential impact. […]
• Gerrit Cole's Return: A Potential Game-Changer for the Yankees February 14, 2026
  Yankees fans have had a rollercoaster ride with Gerrit Cole. After spending the entirety of 2025 recovering from Tommy John surgery, whispers of his imminent return are growing louder. Cole's recent bullpen session reportedly showcased his ability to hit 94 mph, suggesting he’s not just back, but might be ahead of schedule. It's hard to […]
• The Yankees Face a Tough Decision: Trade Jasson Dominguez? February 14, 2026
  The New York Yankees find themselves at a crossroads with Jasson Dominguez, the once-celebrated prospect who now faces an uncertain future. The signing of Cody Bellinger to a hefty five-year, $162.5 million deal has dramatically altered the landscape of the Yankees’ outfield, leaving Dominguez in a precarious position. With Bellinger and the rising Spencer Jones […]
• Yankees’ Bullpen Gamble: Rafael Montero and the Search for Stability February 13, 2026
  The Yankees have dipped their toes into the bullpen waters once again, signing Rafael Montero to a one-year contract. This move adds another name to a list that’s more about potential than proven performance. Is this the best strategy for a team that’s clearly in search of reliable arms? Brian Cashman’s offseason has been marked […]
• Yankees' Season Hinge on Cole's Recovery: Are We Too Optimistic? February 12, 2026
  Gerrit Cole’s recovery from elbow surgery has become a crucial narrative for the Yankees as they gear up for the season. His absence last year was felt deeply, and though the team is projecting optimism, one has to wonder if this enthusiasm is warranted. Manager Aaron Boone’s latest comments paint a rosy picture. Cole has […]
• Yankees’ Goldschmidt Signing: A Double-Edged Sword for Ben Rice February 11, 2026
  The Yankees’ decision to bring back Paul Goldschmidt on a one-year deal raises more questions than it answers as they head into the 2026 season. Sure, Goldschmidt is a seven-time All-Star and brings a certain pedigree with a reputation for handling left-handed pitching. But what does this mean for the development of Ben Rice, a […]