What happened: Left-handed starter Carlos Rodon has gone on the injured list with elbow inflammation, thinning an already-stressed New York rotation. The move lands in the middle of a seven-game losing streak that has dropped the Yankees four games behind Tampa Bay in the AL East.

Why it matters: Losing Rodon removes a key member of the rotation just as New York is trying to arrest a prolonged slide and keep pace atop the division. With the deficit to the Rays widening, the Yankees may now have to weigh the starting-pitching market more seriously to stabilize the staff.

What to watch: Watch for a timeline on Rodon's elbow and whether the Yankees pursue outside rotation help as the losing streak continues.