Luis Severino Lost for Season

Brendan Smith

Following a year full of injuries, the 2020 New York Yankees seem primed for a similar fate, as it was announced this week that Luis Severino will undergo Tommy John Surgery. Typical recovery from Tommy John requires at least 14 months.

Severino, who pitched just 20.1 innings last season (including playoffs) after dealing with shoulder issues, is in the second year of a four-year, $40 million contract (club option for 2023). Despite the loss of Severino, who at his best is a legitimate ace, the Yankees are more than prepared to replace him.

Gerrit Cole, the prized addition of the off-season, will now anchor the rotation with Masahiro Tanaka now sliding into the number two spot. JA Happ is the only other certain for the rotation, although there are plenty of internal options for the final two spots.

James Paxton has resumed throwing following his back surgery this offseason, and Domingo German is eligible to return from his suspension this summer. Likely, those two will occupy the final rotation spots when they return. Until then, Jonathan Loaisiga and top prospects Clarke Schmidt and Mike King will battle to open the season with the big club.