Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 14, 2024 9:06 am GMT
Nestor Cortes may be facing a critical moment just ahead of the postseason, stirring concerns for the New York Yankees as they prepare for October baseball. Initially scheduled to pitch against the Baltimore Orioles, the talented left-hander is now undergoing an MRI on his left elbow, raising questions about his availability for the playoffs and the overall state of the Yankees’ pitching lineup.
Last-minute Medical Concerns
Cortes, who has been a key player for the Yankees this season, was enjoying a stellar run, surrendering just one run over his last 15 1/3 innings. Manager Aaron Boone had previously commented on the Yankees’ health, expressing optimism about their chances as they approached the postseason. However, Cortes’ sudden need for an MRI has cast a shadow over that positivity.
The Impact of Cortes’ Health
Cortes has proven himself durable this year, accumulating a team-high 174 ⅓ innings on the mound before Wednesday morning’s news. Despite his solid performance, he missed the latter half of the previous season due to a left rotator cuff strain. Cortes’ only previous stint on the Injured List (IL) for an elbow issue came in 2020 when he faced left elbow impingement.
If the MRI finds significant issues, the Yankees will need a contingency plan. As outlined by Yankees’ management, they have a few options available if they must scratch Cortes:
- Marcus Stroman: Originally moved to the bullpen after his last start, Stroman has the capability to step in as a starter, having thrown a three-inning save just last week against the Mariners.
- Cody Poteet: After a 60-day stint on the IL for a triceps strain, he has recently been performing well at Triple-A, building his pitch count to 72.
Both options would require the Yankees to navigate roster adjustments, particularly if Cortes needs to go on the IL.
Possible Roster Moves
Should Cortes be placed on the IL, the Yankees could return Poteet to the major league roster. They’d have the flexibility to backdate the IL stint for Cortes by three days if necessary, potentially keeping him sidelined until October 7—the day of Game 2 of the American League Division Series (ALDS).
This development comes at a time when the team is gearing up to defend its playoff status. The Yankees had positioned themselves strategically to clinch the American League East, and losing Cortes could change dynamics in their pitching rotation.
Looking Ahead
As the Yankees navigate this nerve-wracking situation, the upcoming results from Cortes’ MRI will be pivotal in determining their playoff strategy. The team has enjoyed a comparatively healthy roster, but without Cortes, they may need to adjust their game plan, specifically concerning starting and relief pitching roles.
Past performances show Cortes’ potential impact on the postseason, as a return to form could sharpen the Yankees’ competitive edge. Now, as they await test results, fans and team management alike hold their breath, hoping for positive news.
A Critical Playoff Outlook
With Cortes’ future in question, the focus shifts to how the Yankees will adapt if they must proceed without him. The upcoming schedule and postseason, set to commence soon, demand a level of resilience and adaptability from both coaching staff and players.
The last-minute nature of playoff preparations, coupled with injuries, is not unfamiliar in sports. At times, it can test the depth and versatility of a team. The Yankees’ ability to overcome this obstacle could define their postseason journey.
Fans remain hopeful that Nestor Cortes can rebound quickly, continuing to contribute to the team’s success. As of now, staying updated on the outcomes of the MRI will be crucial for understanding the Yankees’ next steps and playoff readiness.
Conclusion
In baseball, injuries can change everything, especially when it comes to playoffs. Nestor Cortes’ MRI results bring some worry but also a chance to bounce back. The Yankees need to be ready to change their game plan at any moment. They have to watch how Cortes is doing and think about how their whole pitching team is performing as they get ready for the tough games in October.
