The New York Yankees have just received a major shock as star pitcher Carlos Rodón unexpectedly suffered a new injury during his recovery, and he himself admitted the pressure is mounting.

“I just want to come back as strong as possible, but sometimes the body doesn’t go according to plan,” he said cautiously, reflecting the anxiety gripping the entire team.

This setback comes at a crucial time. Rodón – who recently underwent surgery to remove bone spurs in his elbow – was expected to return in late April or early May to salvage the Yankees’ rotation.

But the harsh reality is far worse, as he unexpectedly felt a strain in his hamstring during his recovery run, forcing the team to immediately reassess his entire return plan.

No one dares to say this is just a “minor issue.”

Rodón was very close to returning. He had just completed a 50-pitch live batting practice session and was preparing for his official rehab phase in the Minor League. Everything seemed to be going according to plan. But then a pain flared up, and everything was called into question again.

That’s the scariest thing for the Yankees right now.

Because Rodón isn’t just a backup player. He’s a key player. In the 2025 season, this left-fielder had one of the best years of his career with a 3.09 ERA and over 200 strikeouts, becoming a crucial part of the team’s championship ambitions.

And now, he faces the risk of another delay.

Coach Aaron Boone tried to reassure them, but caution was undeniable. The Yankees know the lesson of the past: rushing a pitcher after surgery can cost them an entire season.

In fact, Rodón is no stranger to such setbacks. Throughout MLB history, many pitchers have experienced setbacks during their elbow surgery recovery. Even a small sign of instability can prolong the entire process by months.

The Yankees are also in an extremely precarious situation.

Gerrit Cole – their number one ace – is still undergoing a long-term recovery from Tommy John surgery. This makes their already thin rotation even more dependent on Rodón.

Now, if Rodón continues to be delayed, the Yankees will almost certainly have to patch up their roster with temporary solutions. In reality, they are already operating with a four-person rotation and considering calling in additional pitchers from the farm system to fill the gaps.

This isn’t just a one-player story.

This is a domino effect that could impact the entire season.

A team with championship ambitions cannot afford to be constantly missing its most crucial components. And in a cutthroat division like AL ​​East, even a small gap can cost them dearly.

Rodón understands that better than anyone.

He’s overcome numerous injuries throughout his career. He’s faced doubt, had to start over, and then risen to become an All-Star. But this time, the pressure is even greater.

It’s not just about making a comeback.

It’s about making a comeback at the right time.

And making a comeback at the highest level.

In the Yankees’ locker room right now, no one says it out loud, but everyone understands: time is running out.

A long season ahead. A fierce race. And a big question mark named Carlos Rodón.

If he returns to his best form, the Yankees will still be a formidable contender. But if not, that gap could become a fatal weakness.

Baseball is always a game of patience. But for the Yankees, they have few options other than to wait.

And hope.