Gerrit Cole, New York Yankees ace and reigning AL CY Young pitcher is down with a nerve elbow inflammation injury. After their spring debut, Cole reported considerable beat-up in between recovery from starts. After multiple scans and a timely diagnosis, Cole averted a Tommy John surgery.
Regardless, Gerrit Cole will still miss at least 10-12 weeks, thus ruling out his opening-day participation. Accordingly, the New York Yankees announced Nestor Cortes as the opening-day starter. Meanwhile, ahead of the big day, Cortes stepped on the mound for the final time this spring and signed off on a strong note.
Nestor Cortes Tunes Up For Opening Day Start With Strong Final Spring Outing
As the New York Yankees gear up for the opening day, Nestor Cortes has cleared his final tune-up, solidifying his readiness for the starting role. After Gerrit Cole was placed on IL with an elbow inflammation injury, Cortes was named a replacement. Having said that, Cortes’ journey to this opportunity was filled with challenges. He was shut down mid-season last year with a rotator cuff strain. He spent six months building up and ensuring he suffered no setbacks. Furthermore, throughout spring training, Cortes toiled hard to shape his craft under the guidance of the club’s coaching staff. His performances on the mound have been impressive, which prompted the Yanks to turn to Cortes for the opening-day starter role in the first place. Meanwhile, ahead of the d-day, Nestor Cortes stepped out for his final spring outing and left a mark.
Nestor Cortes threw 75 pitches in four-plus innings and allowed three runs in the process. Despite a 5-2 loss, the pitcher seemed confident. He said facing the Braves was an appropriate tune-up for the Houston Astros opening series. “I don’t think Houston’s any different from them as far as firepower,” added Cortes. Further addressing his opening day start opportunity, Cortes called it a privilege. While he is gutted to lose Gerrit Cole, to have the clubhouse’s confidence is a matter of great pride for Cortes. He is looking forward to embracing every challenge and providing his team with a strong head start. That being said, the New York Yankees will meet the Houston Astros at the latter’s home turf on March 28 for a three-game season-opening series. With a new roster and fresh energy, the Bronx Bombers will strive for the championship this year.
Yankees Infielder Still Doubtful For Opening Day!
In concerning news, the New York Yankees veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu is still nursing a foot injury as the team approaches opening day. According to MLB insider Brendan Kuty, LeMahieu performed light footwork in the outfield earlier this week. He didn’t push anything, and his jog seemed more like a walk.
Needless to say, DJ LeMahieu does not seem in good shape considering his slow approach to recovery buildup. With opening day scheduled for next week, it’s perennial for the Yankees to get LeMahieu up and running on third base. The veteran infielder is slated to bat as leadoff, and his presence is vital for the Yanks’ hitting lineup.
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