Carlos Rodón Faces Immense Pressure to Save Yankees' Season in Pivotal Game 3

With the New York Yankees trailing 0-2 in the ALDS against the Blue Jays and facing elimination, left-handed pitcher Carlos Rodón is set to start Game 3. Rodón acknowledged enjoying the heightened atmosphere of October playoffs in Yankee Stadium but faces tremendous pressure to deliver a signature start. The Yankees signed Rodón to a six-year, $162 million contract expecting him to excel in big spots, not just absorb innings. He had a strong regular season, going 18-9 with a 3.09 ERA, leading the AL in hits allowed per nine innings (6.1) and holding opponents to a .188 batting average. However, the Blue Jays, who had the most hits in the majors and the lowest strikeout percentage, present a challenge, potentially forcing Rodón to seek outs differently than his usual strikeout-focused approach. Rodón noted the Blue Jays' ability to put the ball in play and their athleticism. During the season, Rodón had a 3.60 ERA against Toronto but walked eight batters in 10 innings. His career postseason ERA is 6.15, including a 5.32 mark as a Yankee. Last year, he struggled in his first playoff start, exiting in the fourth inning. This October, he has a 4.50 ERA and lasted six innings in a Game 2 win against the Red Sox. Yankee starters have struggled significantly in this series, combining for only 17 outs and a 14.29 ERA through two games, a trend that must change for the Yankees to extend the series, especially with Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton showing signs of life at the plate.