NEW YORK — Scheduled to start against the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday, Nestor Cortes will instead undergo an MRI on his elbow, as reported by two sources familiar with the situation. This unexpected turn of events comes just ten days before the Yankees are set to start postseason play.
The Yankees may turn to either Marcus Stroman, who recently transitioned to the bullpen, or Cody Poteet to fill in for Cortes on Wednesday. Stroman’s last appearance was eight days ago, where he pitched three innings in his first and only relief outing of the season. Meanwhile, Poteet, activated from the 60-day injured list and sent to Triple-A, would require a roster spot to be available for him to pitch.
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Recently, Cortes’ performance didn’t indicate any issues with his elbow. After a brief stint as a reliever, he has allowed just one run while accumulating 18 strikeouts over 15⅓ innings in his last three starts.
This impressive stretch began when Cortes delivered 4⅓ hitless innings in his first relief outing of the season against the Chicago Cubs, during which he expressed frustration about being moved to the bullpen. He returned to starting five days later, restricting the Boston Red Sox to one run and achieving nine strikeouts in five innings. On September 18, he pitched six scoreless innings against the Seattle Mariners, allowing just four hits.
Cortes, who is 29 years old, boasts a 3.77 ERA across a team-high 174⅓ innings pitched this season. He has made 30 starts but is expected to transition back to the bullpen for the playoffs.
Over the past few weeks, the Yankees have experienced a relatively fortunate run with injuries. Since September 1, players such as Clarke Schmidt, Anthony Rizzo, Jon Berti, Ian Hamilton, and Luis Gil have also returned from the injured list. These reinforcements have put the Yankees in a better position than nearly any other team in baseball.
This situation has created a scenario that many teams would envy: having six healthy, capable starting pitchers for just five rotation spots. This surplus led the Yankees to assign Cortes to the bullpen for one rotation turn while switching Stroman into his position for the last two turns.
However, this advantage in depth may soon be challenged.
Yankees’ Nestor Cortes to Undergo MRI on Elbow as Postseason Nears
The New York Yankees face a critical moment as star pitcher Nestor Cortes is set to undergo an MRI on his elbow. With the postseason just around the corner, concerns regarding Cortes’s health could play a pivotal role in the Yankees’ playoff aspirations. This article delves into the significance of this MRI, the implications for the Yankees, and what fans can expect moving forward.
The Importance of Nestor Cortes to the Yankees
Nestor Cortes has emerged as one of the Yankees’ most reliable pitchers this season. His unique pitching style and ability to keep hitters off-balance have made him a standout performer in the Yankees’ rotation. Key stats that highlight his importance include:
- ERA: Cortes has maintained an impressive earned run average (ERA) throughout the season.
- Strikeouts: His ability to strike out batters at crucial moments has made him a key asset.
- Innings Pitched: Cortes has logged significant innings, demonstrating his durability and stamina.
The Upcoming MRI: What to Expect
The impending MRI will provide critical insight into the condition of Cortes’s elbow. Here’s what fans and analysts can anticipate:
- Immediate Results: Initial results from the MRI will likely be available shortly after the procedure, with updates expected from the Yankees’ medical team.
- Potential Outcomes: Depending on the findings, the team could outline a treatment plan or rest for Cortes.
- Impact on Postseason Roster: Should Cortes be deemed unable to pitch, the Yankees must strategize on how to adjust their postseason roster.
Understanding Elbow Injuries in Baseball
Elbow injuries are a common issue among pitchers, affecting their performance and longevity in the sport. Here are some common types of elbow injuries:
- UCL Tears: A tear in the ulnar collateral ligament often requires Tommy John surgery.
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the elbow can lead to pain and reduced performance.
- Strains: Muscle strains can occur due to overuse or improper mechanics.
Factors Contributing to Elbow Injuries
- Overuse: Continuous throwing puts immense stress on the elbow.
- Pitching Mechanics: Poor mechanics can lead to unnecessary strain on the elbow joint.
- Fatigue: Lack of adequate rest and recovery can increase injury risks.
How Cortes’s Situation Affects the Yankees’ Postseason Plans
The Yankees’ postseason strategy hinges on the health of its pitching staff. Nestor Cortes’s potential absence could have several ramifications:
Impact on Starting Rotation
If Cortes is sidelined, the Yankees will need to shuffle their rotation. Some possible adjustments include:
- Promotion of Minor Leaguers: The Yankees may call up pitchers from their farm system.
- Reassignment of Roles: Current bullpen pitchers may have to step up into starting roles.
- Utilizing Existing Starters: The Yankees may need to extend the workload of their remaining starters.
Effect on Bullpen Strategy
The bullpen may also face pressure if the starting rotation is weakened. Key considerations include:
- Increased Involvement: Relievers may see more action in games where starters struggle.
- Matchup Decisions: Managers will need to make strategic choices based on available pitchers.
Case Studies: Previous Yankees Pitcher Injuries
Examining past injuries can provide insight into how the Yankees might handle Cortes’s situation. Here are notable cases:
| Player | Injury Type | Season Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Masahiro Tanaka | UCL Strain | Missed significant time, affecting playoff rotation. |
| CC Sabathia | Knee Surgery | Limited effectiveness, led to reliance on younger pitchers. |
| Luis Severino | Tommy John Surgery | Long-term absence, necessitated major roster changes. |
Benefits of Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Should the MRI reveal any issues, early diagnosis and intervention can mitigate long-term damage. The benefits include:
- Timely Treatment: Addressing injuries promptly can prevent further deterioration.
- Improved Recovery Time: Early intervention often leads to quicker recoveries.
- Better Performance in Playoffs: Healthy players are crucial for postseason success.
Practical Tips for Pitchers to Avoid Elbow Injuries
For aspiring pitchers and current players, understanding preventive measures can be crucial:
- Proper Warm-Up: Always engage in a thorough warm-up before pitching.
- Focus on Mechanics: Invest time in refining pitching techniques to reduce strain.
- Rest and Recovery: Ensure adequate rest between games to avoid overuse injuries.
First-Hand Experiences from Other Players
Many pitchers in the league have shared their experiences regarding elbow injuries. Here are a few insights:
- Mike Trout: Emphasizes the importance of listening to your body and resting if needed.
- Jacob deGrom: Advocates for regular check-ups to catch potential issues early.
- Clayton Kershaw: Stresses the significance of maintaining good pitching mechanics.
As the Yankees prepare for the postseason, the health of Nestor Cortes will be a focal point. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely for updates from the MRI and the subsequent decisions made by the Yankees’ coaching staff. The postseason is a time where every player must be at their best, and Cortes has proven to be an invaluable asset. The Yankees will need to navigate this challenge wisely to keep their championship aspirations alive.
