New York Yankees are set to begin their spring training camping tomorrow as they face Phillies in Florida. The roster has already been assembled, taking part in regular workout sessions. However, a few injury concerns are hovering over the camp as we speak. Frankie Montas and Ben Rortvedt recently underwent surgeries and will move into rehab. Further, young prospect Austin Wells is MIA due to rib bruises.
Apart from this, Nestor Cortes landed on the injury list just days after WBC 2023 roster announcement. The pitcher pulled up his hamstring and had to withdraw from the tournament. Moreover, his participation in the upcoming MLB season is under the scanner. However, the pitcher seems confident about his return for the opening day as he participated in a live practice session.
Nestor Cortes Features In Live Session, Confident Of Recovering In Time
The 28-year-old pitcher, Nestor Cortes, made his major league debut in 2018 with the Baltimore Orioles and was later acquired by the Yankees. He’s been a valuable member of the team’s bullpen over the past two seasons, posting a 3.60 ERA in 2022. Later, the pitcher received an opportunity to participate in the World Baseball Classic 2023. However, Cortes pulled his hamstring during a run around his home in Miami. Further, the doctors diagnosed it as a Grade 2-level injury. As a result, the starter pulled out of the World League as a precautionary measure.
Ever since, his participation in the regular MLB season has remained questionable. Meanwhile, Nestor Cortes turned up for a live practice session on Thursday after receiving a green signal from the medical staff. He did full pitch from the mound and even managed to strike out Anthony Rizzo.
Post the session, Cortes caught up with the media and said he felt way better than previously anticipated. Nestor added he was initially skeptical about seeing how his leg would react to the pressure. However, he himself was surprised to see the improvement. With several question marks surrounding the team’s starting rotation, Cortes’ positive update is a significant boost for the team.
Cortes Looking Forward To Proving Himself In The Upcoming Season
Ahead of the regular MLB season, New York Yankees starting pitcher Nestor Cortes spoke to Chris Kirschner of The Athletic. Cortes revealed his plans for the 2023 season and said he wants to prove that the 2022 season was not a fluke and that he is a durable and reliable starter. The pitcher further added he still has the hunger to be the best pitcher in the league and wants to be a part of the All-Star team. Further, the Cuban-born claimed that money is the least of his concern and that winning will always remain the end goal.
While Nestor is all charged and hyped up, we still need a final word from the Yankees management regarding his availability for the opening day game. The Bombers need Cortes as their starting rotation is in tatter after Montas’ injury. All eyes are on tomorrow’s game as we are back in action after months-long off-season.