NEW YORK – Elmer Rodríguez’s first big league callup saw the young right-hander cross several items off his wish list, including a long-awaited opportunity to pitch under the bright lights at Yankee Stadium. Now he’ll experience a Subway Series.
The Yankees’ No. 2 prospect according to MLB Pipeline, Rodríguez was recalled from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Saturday and is scheduled to start Sunday’s matinee against the Mets at Citi Field.
“I grew up watching this series,” Rodríguez said. “I know how intense it gets. It’s fun to be here.”
Rodriguez, 22, got the call after left-hander Max Fried was diagnosed with a left elbow bone bruise, sending the three-time All-Star to the 15-day injured list.
Fried had been scheduled to pitch Tuesday against the Blue Jays. To accommodate Rodríguez, who hadn’t pitched since Sunday at Triple-A, the Yankees will have Ryan Weathers and Will Warren pitch on Monday and Tuesday against Toronto, respectively.
“I have high expectations when he walks out there,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said of Rodríguez. “It won’t surprise me if he goes out and pitches well.”
Rodríguez made his Major League debut on April 29 against the Rangers in Arlington, hurling four-plus innings of two-run ball in a no-decision. He lasted 4 2/3 innings against the Rangers in the Bronx on May 5, permitting three runs in another no-decision, then was optioned when Carlos Rodón rejoined the rotation.
“It was good to learn how things work here,” Rodríguez said. “Obviously, I know I’ve got good stuff. I’ve just got to trust myself and attack guys. There are more experienced hitters here than in Triple-A.”
It’s unclear when Fried might be ready to resume throwing. A Yankees spokesperson said Saturday that Dr. Neal ElAttrache reviewed Fried’s imaging and agreed with the findings of team physician Dr. Chris Ahmad, who recommended several weeks without throwing.
As such, it’s likely Gerrit Cole will rejoin the rotation before Fried. Cole made his sixth Minor League rehab start on Saturday, pitching 5 1/3 innings of one-run ball while striking out six for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre against Syracuse. Boone has suggested Cole will make one more rehab start, then be activated.