The New York Yankees faced another injury scare during the series finale game versus the Philadelphia Phillies.
New York Yankees, the team on a quest to clinch the 28th World Series title, lost as many as eight starters to injuries just days ahead of the 2023 season opening day. The pitching staff got hit with the biggest blow, as three-fifth of the rotation ended up on the injury list. Meanwhile, just one week into the season, the Yanks’ stare is another potential injury concern to one of their key starters.
The Bronx Bombers stepped onto the field on Wednesday to take on the Phillies with the series on the line. After suffering a humiliating loss on Tuesday, the Yankees got sweet revenge with a 4-2 win. DJ LeMahieu, Aaron Judge, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Jose Trevino scored a run each. Further, Gerrit Cole earned 8 strikeouts by allowing three hits and an earned run in his second start of the season. However, a regular baseman left the game midway, which got the fans on edge.
Josh Donaldson Leaves Wednesday’s Game Midway Due To Hamstring Discomfort
The New York Yankees’ key baseman, Josh Donaldson, was pulled out of yesterday’s game at the top of the second innings. Josh, who is coming off a poor season in 2022, started in all the games played this season. While he did not produce anything worthy of a headline, the latest injury scare has just made things worse for the team as well as Josh. The baseman left the field after getting a flyout in the second innings and never returned. Isiah Kiner-Falefa came off the bench to replace him in the third inning.
Speaking on the issue, Josh Donaldson said he felt soreness in his hamstring while running on the base paths. Hence, he and the team decided to cut short the game to avoid any further damage. While he is unsure of the severity of the injury, the baseman said he would need to get an MRI done to know the true picture. However, Josh and the Yankees manager, Aaron Boone, are optimistic that the hamstring is not too severe. Regardless, for the Yankees, who still owe Josh $27 million, the injury is the worst thing that could unfold at the moment.
A Sharper Gerrit Cole Aces His Second Start For The Yankees
Last season, after two starts, New York Yankees ace pitcher had already given up three home runs. However, the tables have turned this season. After setting up an opening-day record, Gerrit Cole made his second start on Wednesday. Despite rough weather conditions, Cole maintained control over his fastballs and recorded eight strikeouts on 6.1 innings pitched.
However, his day ended on a rather bizarre note. At the top of the 7th inning, Gerrit Cole and Jose Trevino forgot the existence of a pitch clock and took an eternity to decide on a pitch. Hence, the umpire called it a violation, and Nick Castellanos received a free walk. Nonetheless, it was a good outing for Cole, who is looking much sharper and better than last season.
