New York Yankees have been hit by a serious injury bug since the start of the Grapefruit League. Multiple key starters will likely begin their 2023 MLB season campaign on the injury list. However, as the opening day approaches, a few players have started light training sessions in a bid to make an early comeback. With just less than two weeks to the regular season, it remains to be seen how the Yankees stack up a balanced roster.
Meanwhile, the Yankees pitchers, gravely hit by the injury concerns, have slowly crawled their way back to the mound. Carlos Rodon, who strained his throwing forearm, returned to action for the first time and did medium-paced throws. Moreover, Nestor Cortes, who missed the WBC and the majority of spring training, made a comeback on Thursday night. Cortes, the New York Yankees’ starting pitcher, suffered a hamstring injury last month and missed most of the spring training sessions.
Nestor Cortes Hurl Nasty Throws In His Comeback Game
New York Yankees left-handed pitcher Nestor Cortes made a strong case for a spot in the team’s starting rotation this spring training, dominating in a recent outing against the St. Louis Cardinals. The 27-year-old lefty, re-acquired by the Yankees in a trade with the Seattle Mariners in 2020, has managed to stay impressive in his second appearance this spring. In four innings, he allowed two hits and no walks before striking out as many as seven batters.
These numbers are good news for Yankees fans, as Nestor Cortes is a key starter in the rotation. Remember, the team has already lost three of their regular starters to injury. Moreover, the Bombers had been on the verge of losing Cortes had he not skipped the World Baseball Classic after a hamstring pull. Fortunately, the diagnosis happened at the right place and right time before the pitcher could leave for WBC. However, Nestor had to miss the majority of the Grapefruit League in rehab. Nonetheless, he looks fine now and will likely feature in the opening-day roster.
Carlos Rodon Spotted Doing Reps On The Mound For First Time Since Injury Diagnosis
Meanwhile, New York Yankees most discussed the acquisition of the 2023 off-season, Carlos Rodon, sent shockwaves in New York earlier this month. The pitcher suffered a strain on his left forearm shortly after his spring training debut. As a result, the management official confirmed that Rodon would begin his inaugural year with the Yankees on the injury list and will miss at least the first month of the official season.
But, on Thursday, Rodon did a few reps on the mound. He did passive throws while avoiding fastballs. Further speaking on the rehab journey, the southpaw affirmed that he’s feeling good and is taking one week at a time. While the rehab certainly sucks, the pitcher remained confident of a strong comeback sooner or later. Getting back Carlos Rodon into the line is crucial for the Yankees, who are staring at an incomplete starting rotation.
