Yankees Pitching Prospect to Start Spring Training Opener

Elmer Rodriguez, a top Yankees pitching prospect, will take the mound in Friday's exhibition game against the Orioles.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The New York Yankees have announced that pitching prospect Elmer Rodriguez will start the team's spring training opener against the Baltimore Orioles on Friday. Rodriguez, a 22-year-old right-hander, is considered one of the organization's top prospects after posting a 2.58 ERA with strong strikeout numbers in the minors last season. The outing will serve as an early evaluation point for Rodriguez as he looks to make his case for a spot on the major league roster.

Why it matters

The decision to start Rodriguez in the spring training opener reflects the Yankees' early trust in the young prospect and immediately places him in the spotlight as the team's camp competition begins. A strong performance against major league hitters could influence where Rodriguez begins the season and how quickly he pushes toward the Bronx.

The details

In addition to Rodriguez, the Yankees have also announced that reliever Jake Bird is expected to pitch in Friday's game. The presence of regular contributors like Austin Wells, Jose Caballero, Jazz Chisholm Jr., and Amed Rosario underscores that the Yankees are treating this opener as a meaningful evaluation rather than a routine exhibition.

  • The Yankees' spring training opener is scheduled for Friday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Elmer Rodriguez

A 22-year-old right-handed pitching prospect in the Yankees' organization, who posted a 2.58 ERA with strong strikeout numbers in the minors last season.

Jake Bird

A 30-year-old reliever in the Yankees' organization, who will have the opportunity to strengthen his case for a bullpen spot with an appearance in the spring training opener.

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What they’re saying

“Among the regulars playing in the Yankees' first spring training game tomorrow: Austin Wells, Jose Caballero, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Amed Rosario. Elmer Rodriguez starting. Jake Bird expected to pitch as well.”

— Chris Kirchner, Reporter (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Yankees will continue to evaluate their pitching depth and prospect trajectory throughout spring training as they prepare for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The decision to start top pitching prospect Elmer Rodriguez in the Yankees' spring training opener highlights the organization's early trust in the young arm and provides an important early evaluation point as the team looks to bolster its pitching depth ahead of the upcoming season.