James Paxton's 1st Inning Struggles Should be a Major Concern for Yankee Fans

After the 2018 season, it was clear that the New York Yankees were in need of a big-time starting pitcher to lead them deep into a playoff run. This need prompted general manager Brian Cashman to pull-off a November trade with the Seattle Mariners to acquire LHP James Paxton.

Hoping Big Maple would be that big-time pitcher, the Canadian hasn't lived up to expectations in his first year in the Bronx.

Paxton's struggles have been a big concern for the team and its fans. One stat that may be the most concerning, though, is Paxton's performance in the first inning. The lefty has an 11.00 ERA in 18 opening frames this year, including 10 home runs.

Despite his struggles, at least Paxton can say he made history by being the first Yankee to surrender home runs to the lead-off batter in three consecutive starts. Okay, maybe making history isn't always a good thing.

Paxton, 30, missed most of May with a left knee injury and many wonder if lingering effects of the injury is a cause of his struggles. However, Paxton denies that his knee is still an issue.

In his last seven games, Paxton has a 4.42 ERA. While he has struck out 44 in 36.2 innings, his 15 walks and 48 hits allowed leads to a whopping 1.72 WHIP in those seven games.

With the trade deadline just five days away and a lack of aces available to carry them in the playoffs, the Bombers need Paxton to start pitching like the big-time pitcher they thought they were acquiring.