The New York Yankees have been putrid this season. And while the majority of the fanbase probably gave up on 2023 a long time ago (rightfully so), Gerrit Cole isn’t the lone bright spot of an otherwise lost season.
A door opens. A King enters. Michael King!
Yes, the Yankees lost to the Toronto Blue Jays Wednesday night in disgusting fashion (6-1). And yes, a loss tonight would mean being swept for the 4th time this season. But, Michael King has been an absolute revelation since becoming a full-time starting pitcher this season.
Last night, Michael King locked up a rotation spot in 2024. No, this is not an overreaction. He’s simply been THAT good. Let’s start with last night’s numbers:
7 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 13 Ks (career high), 0 BBs (101 Pitches)
For the 4 of you who watched, you know how electric King’s stuff was last night, but for the rest of you who value your own time, allow me to expound on this masterpiece. King was virtually unhittable all night. He worked quickly, and the only blemish came off of a weakly hit, infield single. Despite adding a loss to this record (wins and losses for a pitcher remain the dumbest statistic in all of sports), this was King’s best pitching performance of his professional career.
Let’s take a closer look at King’s spectacular September:
He’s given up just 4 earned runs across 4 starts so far this month, lowering his season e.r.a. to 2.66. He’s struck out 34 batters while walking just 2. And, he is now fully stretched out, having thrown 101 pitches on Wednesday night. Oh, and most importantly, don’t forget the Yankees have King under team control until 2026.
So, while most Yankee faithful want to drown their sorrows over a .500 record (76-76) with 10-to-play, I implore you to see the bright side, and his name is Michael King.