Yankees’ Carlos Rodon finishing season strong, earns 16th win

Big things could be happening in the Bronx this October if Carlos Rodon continues to pitch the way he has recently.

The Yankees left-hander had another strong outing on Saturday, shutting down the Oakland A’s for six innings, allowing five hits and a walk while striking out four to pick up his 16^th win of the season and move his ERA to 3.98 – the first time it’s been under 4.00 since June 21.

He’s allowed two or fewer runs in nine of his last 12 starts and he is 2-0 with a 1.93 ERA in the month of September.

“I’ve said with him, ‘choppin’ wood,’” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said after the game. “He hit that stretch for about four or five games where it was a struggle in the middle of the season after such a strong start but he kept at it, blinders on, kept working and as a result he’s put together a strong, consistent season for us.”

Saturday’s win moved the Yankees’ magic number to three in order to clinch the American League East. It remains to be seen how Boone and the Yankees will draw up the rotation, but there is a strong chance Rodon takes the No. 2 spot behind Gerrit Cole in a short series.

With one start left in the regular season, Rodon remains focused on just finishing strong and continuing to build his confidence.

“I’m looking forward to this next start to go out there and compete and be ready,” he said.