Yankees' Carlos Rodón Takes Huge Step Toward Return

Rodón threw live batting practice, his first time facing hitters since elbow surgery.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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One of the biggest stories to watch throughout the New York Yankees' offseason was how the Pinstripes would address holes in their starting rotation wrought by injury. While there are still questions to be answered, Carlos Rodón is finally on his way back to being able to pitch in a game.

Why it matters

Rodón's return puts the Yankees' young pitchers like Will Warren, Luis Gil and Ryan Weathers on notice as they compete for a spot in the starting rotation before the season begins.

The details

Rodón threw an inning of live batting practice before the Yankees' Spring Training game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The inning was the first time he's faced live batters since undergoing surgery to remove loose bodies and shave down a bone spur in his throwing arm at the beginning of the offseason. Rodón is expected to return in early May, should his recovery go according to plan.

  • Rodón threw an inning of live batting practice on March 9, 2026.
  • Rodón is expected to return in early May 2026.

The players

Carlos Rodón

A 33-year-old starting pitcher for the New York Yankees who is recovering from elbow surgery.

Will Warren

A young pitcher for the New York Yankees who is competing for a spot in the starting rotation.

Luis Gil

A young pitcher for the New York Yankees who is competing for a spot in the starting rotation.

Ryan Weathers

A young pitcher for the New York Yankees who is competing for a spot in the starting rotation.

Max Fried

One of the Yankees' best pitchers who will be available come Opening Day.

Cam Schlittler

One of the Yankees' best pitchers who will be available come Opening Day.

Gerrit Cole

A Yankees starting pitcher who is recovering from injury.

Carlos LaGrange

A right-handed pitching prospect for the Yankees expected to make his MLB debut this season.

Elmer Rodriguez

A right-handed pitching prospect for the Yankees expected to make his MLB debut this season.

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What they’re saying

“Carlos Rodon tossed an inning of live batting practice at Steinbrenner Field, his first time facing hitters since elbow surgery.”

— Bryan Hoch, MLB insider (Twitter)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Rodón's return puts the Yankees' young pitchers on notice as they compete for a spot in the starting rotation before the season begins. The competition is fierce, with several prospects also vying for a chance to make their MLB debuts this year.