The schedule advantage allows the New York Yankees to start the season with a four-man starting rotation, making Gil an extra player.

The New York Yankees are pleased that Luis Gil delivered a dominant five-inning performance against the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday, reminiscent of his peak form in the 2024 season, but this still isn't enough to secure him a spot in the starting rotation.

Manager Aaron Boone stated that, considering four rest days in the first 13 days of the new season, the team is likely to begin the season with a four-man starting rotation. Max Fried will start the Opening Day game against the San Francisco Giants on Thursday, followed by Cam Schlittler, Will Warren, and Ryan Weathers.

Pitching coach Matt Blake revealed that Gil will remain in Tampa to throw a live batting practice session on Thursday. The team is considering optioning Gil to the minor leagues; if not, Blake mentioned that using him as a tandem pitcher is also a feasible option.

“He wants to be a starter here, so he's frustrated,” Blake said, “but at the same time, he understands our schedule situation in the first two weeks. The question now is how to best benefit him, keep him in rhythm, while finding the optimal balance for both the bullpen and the rotation.”

Gil's worst spring training start occurred on March 15 against the Detroit Tigers, where he allowed seven runs and nine hits over three innings. On Saturday, he bounced back strongly, pitching five scoreless innings with only one hit allowed and striking out seven.

“We were satisfied with his adjustments in his last outing,” Blake said, “He regained the quality of his fastball—the velocity increased, and he generated swing-and-miss. These are important signs. Now we'll see how the first few weeks of the season unfold.”

Gil's total spring training stats: 19.1 innings with an ERA of 4.66. Statistically, Weathers had a worse spring (12.1 innings, ERA 11.68), but the Yankees expressed satisfaction with his raw power and advanced metrics.

The feasibility of a four-man rotation stems from the Yankees' schedule having rest days: March 26, March 29, April 2, and April 6. They won't need a fifth starter until April 11 when they play away against the Rays.

Other decisions are still pending. Boone indicated that bullpen selections are being finalized and results are expected tomorrow.

Six relievers have secured spots: David Bednar, Camilo Doval, Fernando Cruz, Tim Hill, Paul Blackburn, and Ryan Yarbrough. Depending on Gil's situation, the remaining two or three spots will be decided among Osvaldo Bido, Jake Bird, Brent Headrick, and Rule 5 draft pick Cade Winquest.

“I don't think there's a clear right answer,” Blake said, “We're just looking for the most reasonable solution.”