Kim Klement – USA TODAY Sports
The New York Yankees have done an excellent job this year finding replacements for their injured stars, and left-hander Vidal Nuno has been one of the better ones. In only two starts, the 25-year-old rookie has done a nice job.
Nuno is 1-1 in his four appearances, but as a starter he’s been most impressive. His first career start came on May 17 against the Cleveland Indians. Nuno went five innings, surrendering three hits, no runs and three walks, while also tallying three strikeouts. It was his first major league victory. Nuno got his second start in yesterday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays, and he had another solid outing: six innings pitched, five hits allowed, two earned runs, one walk and two strikeouts.
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Nuno doesn’t have overpowering stuff, and he’s certainly not going to wow you with his velocity. But he’s been dependable in his first two starts, and I think that manager Joe Girardi should consider giving him a few more innings; he threw only 89 pitches in his first start and 87 yesterday. Nuno could certainly provide more length if given the chance, and I think he’s earned it.
Will Nuno keep his spot in the rotation? It isn’t clear, but I’m leaning toward a no. With Michael Pineda and Andy Pettite close to returns, it seems doubtful that Nuno will remain a starter. However, I think that he’s at least earned a spot on the roster. He could provide a tough matchup against lefties or even take a long relief role in the bullpen. No matter what role he is filling, I’m sure the Yankees hope that Vidal Nuno continues to be productive.
Kyle Massa is a New York Yankees writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @kylemassa, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.
