Ivan Nova was stellar in his return to the Yankees. (Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports)
NEW YORK — Following three games that saw pitchers allow 34 runs, there were two things the Yankees were looking for in Ivan Nova’s return.
One was consistency and the other was innings.
Based on how Nova’s return to the majors unfolded following a 14-month layoff due to Tommy John surgery, the Yankees received both.
On many days, the offense scoring 10 runs would be a major storyline but Wednesday’s 10-2 rout of the Philadelphia Phillies was all about Nova.
“It was more than what I was expecting,” Nova said. “I was able to calm myself but it was more than what I was expecting.”
It would have been even if he pitched poorly but fortunately for the Yankees, they talked about how well he pitched.
In his return to the rotation, Nova allowed three hits in 6 2/3 scoreless innings. He only struck out one but did not need to thanks to his defense making plays behind him.
“Nova was great,” first baseman Mark Teixeira said. “Exactly what we needed. It looked like he didn’t miss any time, didn’t skip a beat. So it’s great to see.”
It was even more impressive considering Nova said he did not sleep in anticipation of his return. He tried after leaving Yankee Stadium Tuesday but his efforts did not work due to anxiousness and anticipation.
“Somebody told me, they sleep well before (starts), it’s a lie,” Nova said. “I didn’t sleep well.”
Nova’s return comes at a time when the Yankees will use a six-man rotation this week. The likely candidate to go to the bullpen is right-hander Adam Warren even though some columnists and fans believe left-hander CC Sabathia should go instead.
Fantasy Update: If you need pitching, you may want to consider adding Nova to your team. He’ll have offensive support and he’s a quality pitcher.
