This season of Major League Baseball has been a rollercoaster ride for the Yankees. Previously suffering from bad form and several injury issues, the team managed to make a comeback as the postseason came close. The Yankees are set to face Tampa or Cleveland in the American League division. However, the team still has some important questions to address about their Bullpen.
What Will The Yankees\’ Bullpen Look Like?
The Yankees\’ Bullpen is in such bad shape that Aaron Boone is unsure of his best available option at the moment. Clay Holmes has been the topic of conversation in the meantime. However, Holmes has appeared to be an entirely different pitcher since the All-Star break, struggling with his command, self-assurance, and health. In his 22 1/3 innings of work since the break, Holmes has a 4.84 ERA and 33 baserunners allowed. Unfortunately, he was doubtful to be available for the team due to a major shoulder injury he sustained in the second part of the season.
After his last game on September 26, Holmes only started throwing again on Tuesday. Certain procedures must be followed for a pitcher to be declared healthy after an arm injury. Therefore, expecting his return to participate in the playoffs in just six days might be far-fetched. However, Ron Marinaccio, who emerged as a reliable option throughout his rookie year, is sidelined until the ALCS, at the very least, due to a shin ailment. Then there is Gerrit Cole, among the highest-paid pitchers in the sport. When Cole is on the mound, he always has the ability to put on an incredible performance. The Yankees need Cole in the postseason. However, in Cole\’s few outings this season, he has looked completely off-color.
In addition, Giancarlo Stanton has been strong the Yankees\’ lineup since he returned from the IL with Achilles inflammation. In those 30 games, he hit just.165/.266/.367 with 44 strikeouts and seven home homers. Against Baltimore and Texas in his most recent three games, he hit three of the seven home runs. Since being acquired from the Miami Marlins, Stanton has been one of the Yankees\’ most productive and consistent playoff performers. The Yankees have a lot of confidence in Stanton. But the question is whether he can perform for his club on a huge stage.
What\’s The Update On Matt Carpenter\’s Injury?
During the middle of the season, Matt Carpenter unexpectedly proved himself to be an important hitter in the Yankees\’ lineup. However, when the team needed him the most, Matt ran into a foot injury and was placed on the Injured List.
However, now we have an update about his possible return to the Yankees squad. Aaron Boone, the manager of the Yankees, recently discussed Matt\’s probable recovery on Thursday\’s episode of The Michael Kay Show. Boone stated that he anticipates having Carpenter on the American League Division Series roster for New York. Carpenter was just cleared to resume baseball activities, including playing in the last few days of the regular season.
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