Luis Gil Nearing Return to Yankees After Injury Setback
After a standout rookie season with the New York Yankees that earned him American League Rookie of the Year honors, right-handed pitcher Luis Gil is preparing for his much-anticipated return to the mound.
Gil has been sidelined since February due to a lat strain, but there’s now encouraging news. Yankees manager Aaron Boone provided a positive update this week, suggesting Gil could be back pitching by early summer—potentially giving the team a boost during a crucial part of the season.
Progress Continues for Luis Gil’s Comeback
As reported by Rotoballer on May 19, Boone confirmed that Gil is progressing well with his throwing program and is aiming to return in the next two to three weeks. Gil was placed on the 60-day injured list on March 24, but Boone’s comments suggest he remains on schedule to return within that timeline.
Gil’s injury has been a disappointing bump in the road after a stellar 2024, where he went 15-7 with a 3.50 ERA, 171 strikeouts, and a 1.19 WHIP across 29 starts. Despite leading the league with 77 walks, his performance made a strong impression.
Early Signs of Potential
Boone recalled realizing Gil’s potential during a spring training game last March, where he struck out eight Phillies hitters despite already being reassigned to the minors. That performance led to a change in plans, with Gil joining the major league roster instead.
Luis Gil gets 1st big league win in 3 years, pitches Yankees over Rays 5-4 | AP NewsLuis Gil
I always think back to that game in Clearwater,” Boone said, via MLB.com. “He had already been sent down, but we brought him in, and he just overpowered them. From there, he never looked back.”
Gil credited his health for his breakout rookie campaign. Speaking through an interpreter after the season, he said, “I’m proud of what I accomplished. Staying healthy was key. I focused on every start, matured as the season progressed, and that helped me reach this point.”
Opportunity Amid Adversity
While this year’s injury has been a setback, it also presents a new opportunity. With ace Gerrit Cole out following Tommy John surgery in March, Gil could be called on to take on a more prominent role in the rotation.
