Yankees’ $162 million pitcher off to a rough spring start

MLB: Spring Training-New York Yankees at Toronto Blue JaysThe Yankees are counting on Carlos Rodón to be a steady presence in their rotation this season, but his early spring training performances have been anything but smooth. The $162 million lefty has been getting hit hard in live batting sessions, surrendering loud contact, including a home run to Jasson Domínguez. That trend carried over into his first spring start on Saturday against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Experimenting With His Changeup

Rodón lasted 2.2 innings in his spring debut, allowing five hits and three earned runs while striking out just one batter. His biggest issue? Hard contact. Some of the hits he gave up reached exit…