Carlos Rodón, one of the most talented left-handed pitchers in Major League Baseball, has recently made a promise to himself: not to think too much about baseball during this offseason. After a grueling 2024 campaign with the New York Yankees, Rodón is taking a much-needed mental break from the sport, hoping to recharge and refocus for the upcoming season. His decision comes on the heels of an injury-riddled season and performance struggles, which have left both Rodón and the Yankees looking for a fresh start.
Rodón’s 2024 season was challenging, as he battled injuries and inconsistency on the mound. After signing a massive six-year, $162 million contract with the Yankees prior to the 2023 season, expectations were high for the All-Star pitcher. However, his debut season in pinstripes was marred by shoulder issues that delayed his start until midseason, and he never seemed to fully find his rhythm. By the time 2024 rolled around, Rodón was still seeking the dominant form he displayed with the Chicago White Sox and San Francisco Giants, where he emerged as one of the league’s top power lefties.
Acknowledging the toll that back-to-back frustrating seasons took on his physical and mental well-being, Rodón emphasized the importance of stepping away from the game, even temporarily. “I’m going to take this offseason to focus on my family and not think much about baseball,” Rodón told reporters after the season. “Sometimes, to get back to being your best, you need to stop overthinking and just breathe.”
Rodón’s approach reflects a growing trend among professional athletes who recognize the importance of mental health and work-life balance. While staying in shape and preparing for the next season will certainly be part of his offseason routine, his focus will be on allowing himself time to reset, free from the constant pressure that comes with playing in New York, one of the toughest markets in professional sports.
By taking this mental break, Rodón hopes to return to the Yankees in 2025 with renewed energy and a clearer mindset. His talent is undeniable—he was an All-Star and Cy Young candidate as recently as 2022—and the Yankees are banking on his ability to regain his form. With this fresh perspective, both Rodón and the Yankees are optimistic that he will bounce back and fulfill the promise that came with his blockbuster signing.
Ultimately, Rodón’s decision to step away from the mental grind of baseball, if only for a few months, could prove pivotal as he prepares for the challenges that lie ahead. Both he and the Yankees hope that this period of rest will help him reclaim his status as one of the most dominant left-handers in the game.
