Luis Severino, who grew up as a devoted Yankees fan, is eager for his upcoming face-off against the team he once played for. Speaking from Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, Severino expressed his excitement about the matchup, which is set for Sunday. He admitted he is trying to strategize how to pitch to Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, highlighting his determination to bring his best performance to the game.
Severino, a former ace for the Yankees from 2015 to 2023, did not have the opportunity to face them last season due to the Mets’ rotation adjustments. This year, he jokingly remarked about the Yankees’ lineup, recalling a time when he joked they had “only two good hitters,” referring to Judge and Juan Soto, although he acknowledged that he needs to catch up on the team’s current stats.
Now a member of the Oakland Athletics, Severino has been performing well with a 3.62 ERA in his first eight starts. Notably, he is embracing a new look, sporting the beard he was unable to maintain while with the Yankees due to their facial hair policies, a change that he found frustrating during his tenure in New York.
After struggling with injuries that hindered his career with the Yankees, Severino has learned valuable lessons about maintaining his physical health, which has allowed him to thrive with the A’s. His successful season in Queens led to him signing a lucrative three-year, $67 million contract, providing him with the stability he sought.
Looking ahead, Severino remains appreciative of his time with the Yankees, stating that they played a significant role in his development as both a pitcher and a person. His excitement to pitch against them reflects a continued fondness for the organization, showcasing the respect he holds for his past teammates.
This matchup not only sets the stage for a compelling game but also speaks to Severino’s inspiring journey from a promising star to overcoming challenges and continuing to shine on a new team.