Shaky Pineda start creates ‘tough situation’

ST. PETERSBURG — Once again, too many of Michael Pineda’s pitches wandered toward the middle of home plate on Saturday afternoon, and that recurring trend has the Yankees wondering if he really will be able to fix the problem at the Major League level.

Pineda was pounded for six runs and nine hits in just 3 2/3 innings, taking the loss as the Yankees lost, 9-5, to the Rays at Tropicana Field. Through 10 starts, Pineda’s 6.92 ERA is the worst of any qualified big league starter, and the Yanks’ patience seems to be wearing thin.

“We’d like to get him through this, but our eyes are open to what goes on,” pitching coach Larry Rothschild said. “To win games, that’s the most important thing to the team. [Is Pineda’s spot] in jeopardy? I don’t know, but certainly we realize what’s gone on.”

Yankees manager Joe Girardi said that the club has not discussed removing Pineda from the rotation, but general manager Brian Cashman has confirmed that Pineda can be optioned to the Minors, should they choose to do so.

“When I hear from guys that face him, all they say is how unbelievable this guy is and how good of stuff he has,” Carlos Beltran said. “They just can’t believe his ERA is so high. The way I see Michael right now, I feel …

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