New York Yankees pitching coach Larry Rothschild cites health as a major starting pitching concern for the 2019 MLB campaign.
New York Yankees pitching coach Larry Rothschild has identified the worrisome issue concerning the 2019 rotation.
Health.
As obvious as it is, Rothschild has publicly admitted it, via Greg Joyce of the New York Post.
“It’s not always the best pitching staff, a lot of times it’s the staff that can stay the healthiest,” the veteran pitching coach said at the Yankees’ minor league complex, ahead of pitchers and catchers officially reporting Wednesday. “Obviously there are some things we need to watch with our guys.”
Rothschild, 64, has been the Yankees pitching instructor since 2011. Previously, he served the same role with the Chicago Cubs from 2002-2010. The long-time pitching guru has also experienced time with the then-Florida Marlins, Atlanta Braves, and Cincinnati Reds.
From 1998 through 2001, Rothchild served as manager of the Tampa Bay (Devil) Rays.
If anybody’s insight is worthwhile, it’s this man’s.
Luis Severino (RHP), James Paxton (LHP), Masahiro Tanaka (RHP), J.A. Happ (LHP), and CC Sabathia (LHP) showcase the makings of a solid unit, especially with three throwing from the left side of the rubber in Yankee Stadium.
Depth is the key and Rothschild understands the notion. The health concern is especially the case in 38-year-old Sabathia’s case.
“As far as I know, right now he’s a full-go as far as activity,” Rothschild said in accordance with Sabathia’s current status. “I know because of the timing of it and everything, we have to come in and it’s going to be a little slower, although he’s going to do the work and everything. But I think we have to manage that by how it is day to day. We’ll find out more as camp progresses.”
“We have to manage the knee as much as everything else for effectiveness,” Rothschild said. “Obviously his health and his wellbeing going forward is a priority.”
New York Yankees pitchers and catchers officially report to Tampa, Florida on Feb. 14.
