Numbers prove Yankees trusting Gerrit Cole over Carlos Rodón for Game 1 defies analytics

Yanks Go Yard writer Matthew Swigonski argues that New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone defied analytics by selecting right-handed pitcher Gerrit Cole over left-hander Carlos Rodón to start Game 1 of the Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Statistical splits indicate the Rays struggled heavily against left-handed pitchers in 2026, ranking 25th in team OPS, while possessing the fourth-best team OPS against right-handers.

Despite the matchup data favoring Rodón, the writer notes that Boone is trusting Cole's pedigree and postseason resume over the regular-season numbers. Cole carries extensive playoff experience, holding a 2.77 ERA across 22 career postseason starts.