The Yankees have only announced Gerrit Cole as their Game 1 starter for their upcoming World Series matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers, but the remainder of the plan is taking shape behind the scenes.
There are no great surprises here. The expectation is that Carlos Rodon will start Game 2 and Clarke Schmidt in Game 3. Word around the team is that Luis Gil is likely for Game 4, but the team has not not yet finalized that.
Nestor Cortes, if he makes the roster as is expected, could be used in the same type of “length and leverage” role in which David Peterson was supposed to serve for the Mets in the National League Championship Series, before Peterson was needed in the rotation.
It helps to have a lefty starting pitcher in the bullpen against the Dodgers, with their lefty-hitting stars; Cortes could give an inning or two in a lane that includes a Shohei Ohtani or Freddie Freeman. Cortes could also piggyback a starter if necessary.
