Yankees' Carlos Rodón Set to Return vs. Cubs After Rehab on Forearm, Back Injuries

New York Yankees starting pitcher Carlos Rodón is scheduled to make his 2023 debut in Friday's upcoming game against the Chicago Cubs.

Manager Aaron Boone confirmed the southpaw's last rehab start went according to plan as he completes his recovery from forearm and back trouble that prevented him from suiting up for the Bronx Bombers.

Rodón made his third minor league appearance of the season Saturday for the Hudson Valley Renegades in High-A. He threw 3.2 scoreless innings and struck out eight as his team went on to beat the Wilmington Blue Rocks 8-2.

The Yankees signed the two-time All-Star to a six-year, $162 million contract in the offseason, giving them a potent 1-2 combination at the top of the rotation between him and Gerrit Cole.

But a left forearm strain necessitated a trip to the injured list in early March. Then a persistent back issue delayed his maiden appearance in pinstripes even further.

"It's hard to put a date on anything," he told reporters on May 23. "I want to be back as soon as I can, anyway I can help. I want to be pitching."

Rodón's expected debut couldn't come at a much better time.

Frankie Montas underwent offseason shoulder surgery that cast doubt on his availability for the entire year. Nestor Cortes is on the IL due to a left rotator cuff strain. And Luis Severino is now 1-3 with a 6.30 ERA and a 6.33 FIP after he surrendered seven earned runs in Saturday's 11-4 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals.

The Yankees are in need of the help Rodón can provide when he finally steps onto the mound.