JUST IN: Luis Gil injury vindicates Brian Cashman for not settling on Marcus Stroman trade

The New York Yankees’ pitching depth took a hit with the recent injury to Luis Gil, but in a twist of fate, it may have justified general manager Brian Cashman’s decision to pass on acquiring Marcus Stroman this offseason.

Gil, a hard-throwing right-hander who was projected to be a key depth piece for the Yankees’ rotation, is expected to miss significant time due to an undisclosed arm injury. While the loss stings, Cashman’s refusal to settle on a Stroman deal now appears to be the right move, as the Yankees preserved financial flexibility and their long-term vision.

The Yankees were linked to Stroman throughout the offseason, with reports indicating that the former Cubs and Mets starter was open to a Bronx reunion. However, Cashman remained steadfast in his approach, unwilling to overpay for a pitcher whose volatility and outspoken nature had raised concerns within the organization. Ultimately, Stroman landed with the Yankees’ crosstown rival, the New York Mets, on a multi-year deal.

At the time, critics questioned whether Cashman’s reluctance would leave the Yankees vulnerable in the rotation. But with Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Nestor Cortes, and Clarke Schmidt forming a solid core, the front office believed in their internal options, including Gil. Now, even with Gil sidelined, the Yankees still have options to address their pitching depth without being tied to a costly Stroman contract.

Furthermore, Stroman’s spring training struggles with the Mets—combined with concerns over his durability—have only reinforced Cashman’s decision. The Yankees still have the flexibility to make moves midseason if needed, potentially targeting higher-upside arms at the trade deadline rather than committing to a long-term deal that might not have been a perfect fit.

While Gil’s injury is an unfortunate setback, it does not leave theCC scrambling. Instead, it further validates Cashman’s calculated patience and refusal to settle. As the season unfolds, New York’s front office can continue to operate from a position of strength rather than desperation—a luxury that could prove crucial in their pursuit of another championship.