The playoffs will determine a lot for the future of the New York Yankees and several veterans on the team regardless of how long or short they last in it. The team is preparing to play the Houston Astros in the wild card game for the playoffs which is requiring plenty of roster decisions that could shape the future of the franchise. With CC Sabathia now out of the mix, what does that means for the pitching rotation moving forward?
Sabathia released a statement as reported by ESPN that he will be checking into a rehab facility for alcohol abuse and will not be available to pitch in the postseason. This season was not an easy one for the ace as he struggled early then was injured for a portion of the season. now he will miss the playoffs in order to take care of himself. General manager Brian Cashman made it clear the Yankees would support Sabathia through this time period.
The struggles of Sabathia have allowed another pitcher to emerge as potentially the future of the organization. According to Andrew Marchand of ESPN.com, if the Yankees were to win the wild card game, Luis Severino would be the pitcher in Game 1. He represents the future of the organization. Cashman was rewarded for not trading the star as he now replaces Sabathia on the mound. With players like David Price, Johnny Cueto and potentially Zack Greinke available in the coming offseason, major changes could be headed to the Yankees' pitching rotation as Ivan Nova could also be on the outs.
Mark Teixeira has doubt regarding his future. The first baseman is out for the season as his injury history grows. Greg Bird is proving the Yankees do not need the high-priced veteran. With one year remaining on his contract, NJ.com believes Teixeira is trade bait this offseason. Bird is a star on the rise and is ready for the postseason as the Yankees will lean heavily on his bat.
Rob Refsnyder is in the same boat. According to the New York Post, the infielder is likely to be on the playoff roster and could be a starter thanks to the concussion issues Stephen Drew is facing. Dustin Ackley is also in the running for the spot, but Refsynder has a shot to take it. The success of Refsnyder, Severino and Bird is proving that Cashman was right to hold out on trading them for big-armed pitchers this season. The rookies could not help dictate the future of several veterans.