With three days left for the American League Division series, the New York Yankees stepped out at the Yankee Stadium for a live practice session. While hitters are top reps in the batting cage, pitchers hit bullpen sessions and a few practiced balls at several infield positions.
That being said, the New York Yankees still don’t know who they’ll face in the ALDS as the Orioles-Royals battle it out in the wildcard series. Regardless, the Yanks are keeping their preparations right. Meanwhile, manager Aaron Boone shared a small health update on first baseman Antony Rizzo, who’s struggling from a season-ending injury.
Anthony Rizzo Snubbed From Baseball Activities Due To Fractured Fingers
As the New York Yankees prepare for the American League Division Series (ALDS), manager Aaron Boone provided an update on the status of first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who is recovering from a fractured right hand. Rizzo was hit by a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates last weekend, and X-rays revealed fractures on two fingers. He was immediately placed on 15-day IL with ALDS return being deemed a ‘long shot.’ Currently, Rizzo is still wearing a brace on his injured hand and has yet to return to any baseball activities. Boone clarified that the team will not be testing Rizzo’s ability to perform until “at least for a couple more days.” Notably, the uncertainty around the infielder’s recovery creates a significant concern for the Yanks.
While Aaron Boone acknowledged Anthony Rizzo’s importance, he also emphasized the need for caution in the recovery process. “We want to make sure he’s fully healthy before he attempts any baseball activities,” Boone said. That being said, with Rizzo sidelined, the New York Yankees are exploring their options at first base. Players like Oswaldo Cabrera, Ben Rice, and Jon Berti have been taking ground balls and preparing to fill in as needed. As the playoffs approach, the Yanks are keenly aware of the impact Rizzo’s potential absence could have on their postseason chances. With the first game of the ALDS fast approaching, the team will need to finalize its roster and ensure that every player is prepared to contribute in the quest for a championship. Boone’s cautious approach reflects the high stakes involved, both for Rizzo’s health and the team’s overall performance in October.
Orioles Or Royals? Who Will Face Yankees In ALDS?
The New York Yankees have secured the top seed in the American League playoffs, giving them a strategic advantage as they await their opponent in the next round. They will face the winner of the wildcard series between the Kansas City Royals and Baltimore Orioles, which kicked off this week.
As the wildcard matchups unfold, MLB experts have weighed in with their predictions. A majority seem to favor the Orioles over the Royals, highlighting their momentum as they head into the postseason. However, Tim Kelly from Bleacher Report suggests the Royals might pull off an upset, citing concerns about the Orioles’ rotation depth and bullpen instability as factors hindering their postseason run.
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