Will Warren Shines as Yankees Face Rotation Decisions with Cole and Rodon Returning

The New York Yankees are on the cusp of a significant roster shakeup as they prepare for the return of ace pitchers Carlos Rodon and Gerrit Cole. With both expected back before the end of June, the team faces the challenge of determining which starters will make way for their reinforcements. Rookie Elmer Rodriguez, recently called up, is likely to lose his spot in the rotation to Rodon. The question now becomes who will cede their place to Cole?

Amid this uncertainty, Will Warren is making a compelling case to remain in the Yankees’ starting lineup. In a commanding performance during Friday’s 7-2 victory over the Baltimore Orioles, Warren struck out nine batters and allowed just two runs (one earned) over 6.1 innings, surrendering only three hits and one walk. With this outing, he improved to 4-0 on the season, boasting a 2.39 ERA and 46 strikeouts across seven starts, making him a standout in the majors with two or fewer earned runs allowed in each appearance.

“We say he’s the guy we haven’t talked about, and it’s just been the body of the work, starting from spring training, has been excellent over and over again,” manager Aaron Boone praised Warren after the game. “Stuff’s been excellent, the strike-throwing is there, he was just in command… Just another really strong performance.”

Warren, modest about his success, attributed it to confidence. “Feel good. Confident taking the mound every five days,” he shared, though there’s more to his recent success than mere self-assurance. Boone highlighted the valuable experience Warren gained during the 2025 season, where he made 33 starts and recorded a 9-8 record with a 4.44 ERA. That trial by fire appears to be paying dividends this season.

Two key adjustments showcased Warren’s growth in Friday’s game. Prior to the matchup, he and catcher Austin Wells identified that a changeup would be effective against left-handed hitters. Warren utilized the pitch 12 times, primarily against lefties, resulting in three swings-and-misses. Notably, only one of the three hits he allowed came from a left-handed batter. Additionally, Warren adeptly shifted his strategy mid-game, opting for offspeed pitches when he recognized that his four-seamer wasn’t effective. His fastball usage dropped from 43 percent to 32 percent as he adapted his approach.

“The ability to execute what I wanted to do wasn’t there tonight, so we kinda shifted,” Warren explained. “More offspeed than I’m used to. Just being able to shift and still have confidence throwing out there and getting the results was nice, too.”

This ability to adapt is a testament to Warren’s continued development. Boone remarked on his young pitcher’s aptitude, saying, “We’re just talking about a young, talented guy that’s shown really good aptitude over the years, and I think a love for the craft and an expectation to be really good. He’s not satisfied.” Boone noted that Warren is focusing on his strengths while also addressing weaknesses, trusting his pitches within the strike zone.

Warren himself acknowledged the importance of experience. “Another year under my belt. You learn a lot out there,” he said. “Talk about it in here all you want, but it’s about getting your feet wet and learning as the game goes long.”

The Yankees’ starting staff currently boasts a major league-best 2.70 ERA and 184 strikeouts in 32 starts this season, with Warren playing a significant role in that success. He has consistently pitched at least six innings in his last three starts, helping the Yankees to a 6-1 record in games he has started.

As the Yankees await the return of Rodon and Cole, Warren remains focused on his performance. He noted a “friendly competition” among the starting pitchers, emphasizing their mutual support while also striving to outshine one another. “We’re going to have the best staff in all of baseball when [Rodon/Cole] come back,” he stated. “Best pitchers are going to pitch the majority of innings. I gotta make sure I keep going out there and doing my job.”

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.