The New York Yankees have struggled massively to find consistency on offense so far this season. Barring a couple of guys, the rest all have struggled to find form. On top of that, the consistent injuries refuse to die down. The Yankees’ outfield depth has been hit hard by injuries and depleting at an alarming rate. Several key regulars have picked up grave injuries last few weeks and made their way into the IL accordingly.
After Harrison Bader delayed his 2023 season debut due to oblique issues, slugger Giancarlo Stanton strained his hamstring and entered the crowded IL indefinitely. Now, the injury could likely take up to six weeks to heal. Hence, amid the chaos, the New York Yankees have made one significant roster move to boost the depleting outfield depth.
Yankees Sign Outfielder Kole Calhoun In Minor League Contract
Kole Calhoun, 35, has spent the majority of his career with the Los Angeles Angels, where he played from 2012 to 2020. Next, he signed a two-year deal with the Diamondbacks prior to the 2021 season but struggled in his time in Arizona, hitting just .230 with 21 home runs and 57 RBIs in 105 games. Moreover, the outfielder signed a minor league contract with the Seattle Mariners and played spring with .286 in 35 at-bats. However, he opted out of the contract and stayed as a free agent. With a depleting depth, the New York Yankees saw this as a perfect opportunity.
Now, the Yankees have signed Kole Calhoun on a minor-league contract. The outfielder will spend his time at Triple-A Scranton Wilkes-Barre RailRider. Although the Yankees are hoping that Calhoun can provide some depth and experience in their outfield, which has been hit hard by injuries so far this season. Star outfielder Giancarlo Stanton was recently placed on the injured list with a hamstring strain. Moreover, Harrison Bader has also been dealing with injuries off lately. Overall, the signing of Calhoun is a low-risk move for the Yankees, who are hoping to add some depth and experience to their roster. If he can regain his form and provide some power and defense in the outfield, he could end up being a valuable addition to the team.
Harrison Bader To Begin Rehab Assignment On Friday
Meanwhile, New York Yankees manager has come forward with another big news. Yank’s center fielder, Harrison Bader, who is recovering from an oblique strain, is likely to begin a rehab assignment on Friday. Double-A Somerset Patriots will take on New Hampshire Fisher Cats tomorrow, and Bader will play as a part of the Yankees organization.
This is a significant step in Harisson’s recovery process. He underwent several grilling workout sessions the past week. The positive outcomes of the workouts prompted the Bombers to put him into rehab. Post the game, Bader will report back to the Yankees medical team. Upon assessment, the club will determine his return timeline. That being said, if all things go well, it should be a week or two until the center fielder can finally make a return to the Bombers’ clubhouse.
