Yankees’ Breakout Ace Doesn’t Consider Himself a Star

Back in February, no one in the world would have believed that Luis Gil would be the New York Yankees’ best pitcher through the first 70 games of the 2024 season.

But that’s exactly what happened.

Gil currently sports a 9-1 record, a 2.03 ERA and a team-leading 96 strikeouts in 14 starts.

Gil’s .142 BAA (Batting Average Against) is by far the best in all of baseball. The second best BAA in the league is .178.

The 26-year-old Dominican pitcher has not only become the Yankees’ interim ace while Gerrit Cole remains on the sidelines, but he has also become one of the best pitchers in all of baseball.

This resounding success made Gil a New York sensation. Still, Gil isn’t quite comfortable calling himself a “star” yet.

Gil was interviewed by Steve Serby of the New York Post for a June 15 article. When Gil was asked what it meant to be a star in New York, he responded, “When you say a star, man, it’s a heavy word. We’ve done some guys that are really, really, really talented. I don’t consider myself a star. I’m just trying to do my job here and help this team as much as I can.

However, Gil acknowledged that fame is a byproduct of being a Yankee.

“At the same time, you play for the world-famous Yankees,” Gil added. “So it’s inevitable, you walk around and people will recognize you from time to time because of the number of fans the team has.”

Gil was quick to praise injured New York ace and reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Gerrit Cole in the interview.

“Having Gerrit Cole around to be able to transfer some of his knowledge and give me some advice that I can put into practice I think has been very beneficial to me as well,” Gil said when asked about the reasons for his success this season.

Gil was then asked about some of the other pitchers he likes to watch.

“I have to say Gerrit Cole,” he replied, “I’m lucky to have him with me, to see him up close and learn from him.”

While Yankees fans are also eager to see Cole up close again, Gil has helped hold down the fort in his absence.