With the 2025 MLB season fast approaching, Aaron Boone has finalized the Yankees’ defensive rotation on the mound. The adjustments account for Gerrit Cole’s absence, ensuring the team is ready to adapt without their ace.

© Getty Images Manager Aaron Boone #17 of the New York Yankees plays catch before a game against the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on August 12, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

Aaron Boone aims to minimize the impact of Gerrit Cole’s absence, which will undoubtedly be challenging to overcome. The Yankees’ rotation is already set, and according to Boone, it’s the best lineup they could assemble for the opening games of the 2025 MLB season.

Boone revealed that the Yankees‘ starting rotation for the first four games will feature Carlos Rodón, Max Fried, Marcus Stroman, and Will Warren. It was announced a week ago that Rodón would be the Opening Day starter.

Fried will have a golden opportunity to continue showcasing his solid form. Meanwhile, Carlos Carrasco is still waiting for his role to be defined in the first set of games, but Boone mentioned that Carrasco could pitch in any of the following three games.

It’s worth noting that among the starters for the first four games of the season, the only one without prior Yankees experience is Max Fried. He recently joined the club after spending eight long years with the Braves, where he posted an impressive 3.07 ERA and a 73-36 overall record.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 26: Carlos Rodón #55 of the New York Yankees reacts as he leaves the game as they play the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fourth inning during Game Two of the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium on October 26, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Beyond the Starters, the Yankees’ Bullpen Looks Solid

While the absence of Gerrit Cole remains the main challenge, the starters will have the support of a bullpen loaded with talent. Key players include Luke Weaver, positioned as the Yankees’ designated closer for each game, along with names like Loáisiga, who is finally set to return for the 2025 season

Devin Williams
Ian Hamilton

Luke Weaver
Jake Cousins

Tim Hill
Jonathan Loáisiga

Fernando Cruz
Scott Effross

Mark Leiter Jr.
Tyler Matzek

Yoendrys Gómez
Clayton Beeter

Brent Headrick
JT Brubaker

Yerry De Los Santos

It’s crucial for the bullpen pitchers to be as sharp as the starters, as their performance will determine whether the Yankees can close out and win games—especially in challenging matchups against teams like the Mets or Dodgers, known for their formidable strength on the mound.