Why Yankees are turning to Gerrit Cole over Carlos Rodon in Game 1 of ALDS

The New York Yankees have selected Gerrit Cole to start Game 1 of the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays, opting for him over fellow starting pitcher Carlos Rodon. This decision was heavily influenced by the conditions at Tropicana Field, where the Yankees believe Cole's pitching arsenal performs better. Manager Aaron Boone and pitching coach Matt Blake have commented on this preference without elaborating further.

Cole's four-seam fastball has been known to dip 19.3 inches of vertical break at Tropicana Field, compared to 17.7 inches at his home stadium, Yankee Stadium, leading to a higher whiff rate on batters. Additionally, opponents have a lower on-base percentage against Cole in domed environments, with a .568 OPS compared to .665 outdoors.

Rodon, on the other hand, has a higher OPS against in domes (.655) and outdoors (.676). Another factor is the lack of wind inside Tropicana Field, which has affected Cole's fastball velocity. While the Rays have a strong offensive performance against right-handed pitching, Cole has a better ERA (2.93) in postseason starts compared to Rodon's 6.92 ERA across six postseason starts with the Yankees.

Despite Rodon's strong September performance, Cole has proven more effective in high-pressure situations, making him the Yankees' choice for Game 1.