Ryan Weathers pitched his fourth consecutive strong outing on Tuesday, allowing just one run over 5 2/3 innings in the Yankees' 4-1 victory over the Seattle Mariners. Despite his performance, his place in the Yankees' rotation is uncertain as Carlos Rodón is expected to return after one more rehab start.
Weathers gave up a solo home run to Randy Arozarena in the sixth inning, which at the time, was the only run scored and occurred while the Yankees' offense had yet to break through. The team rallied for four runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to secure the win.
"I'm in this organization to win ballgames at this level," Weathers said after the game. "Whatever that means, I think I'm a valuable asset in any role. That's what I want [Aaron Boone] to know about me. If I'm in the bullpen, that's fine."
Previously, Weathers had allowed only one run over 18 2/3 innings in his preceding three starts. His performance on Tuesday extended a streak of retiring 11 consecutive batters before Arozarena's home run, and he had pitched 22 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings prior to that.
Pitching coach Matt Blake indicated that no decision has been made regarding the rotation once Rodón is healthy. "Weathers is throwing the ball extremely well lately, and there are a lot of valuable innings to be had as a starter," Blake said. "I don't think we've made a decision one way or the other with Carlos coming back. We'll let it play out. It usually sorts itself out, as it has so far this year."
Weathers has shouldered a heavier workload this season than in any of his previous five major league seasons. Before this year, he had never started more than 18 games or pitched more than 94 2/3 innings. After Tuesday's start, his 23rd of the season, he has pitched 126 2/3 innings. "I feel great. My arm is really good," Weathers stated.
He has adjusted his pitch mix, increasing the use of his sinker and slider while reducing his four-seam fastball and sweeper, which has led to fewer home runs allowed. Manager Aaron Boone commented on his current effectiveness: "He's got a great handle on who he is and what he needs to do. He's executing at a high level right now."