MLB analyst sets the stage for Yankees' rotation regression despite elite ERA

The New York Yankees could not have asked for a better start to the 2026 season. They have come out looking strong, despite missing some key pieces in the starting rotation like Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, and Clarke Schmidt, all on the IL.

The pitching staff has actually been one of the stronger points for this team so far. The starting rotation is doing a great job, and the bullpen is looking the part, handling high-leverage situations well. 

Max Fried is leading the way with his 2-0 start with a 1.35 ERA, and Cam Schlittler has stepped up tremendously, closely following Fried with a 2-0 record himself and a 1.62 ERA. All arms have combined for a 2.42 ERA, which is the second-best across MLB.

MORE: Yankees make bold Ryan McMahon decision that affects Amed Rosario against Athletics

MLB analyst sets the stage for Yankees' rotation regression despite elite ERA

Take what the pitching staff has done and add great starts offensively from Ben Rice, Aaron Judge, and Giancarlo Stanton, and it's no wonder that the team currently sits in first place in the AL East with their 8-2 record. 

So, fans should be more than excited to see Cole, Rodon, and Schmidt return from the IL. However, Bleacher Report's Zachary D. Rymer pumps the brakes on the three returning and blowing everyone out of the water. 

"Will Warren and Ryan Weathers have been just OK, however, and the Yanks haven't needed a fifth starter yet because of their schedules. And despite their pedigrees, expectations for Cole, Rodon, and Schmidt are best held in check. All three are 30-somethings who'll be returning from elbow surgeries."

Rymer's criticism is fair, and fans should lower their expectations. It's going to be hard for these three to come into the season after missing a few months and getting back to the level that makes them great. 

We have seen multiple pitchers try to return from elbow surgery in the middle of the season, and just could not get much going. Fans should prepare themselves for the same thing here. 

However, there is always a chance that any of these arms can pick up right where they left off. Fans will just have to wait and see.

More MLB news:

• Cal Raleigh is proving to be more human than his 2025 stats suggested
• Giants still waiting for their talented roster to start clicking
• Elite run prevention is keeping the Reds alive early this season
• Marlins are finally finding the power to match their elite pitching
• Low expectations aren't stopping the Cardinals from competing early