Luis Severino
(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Luis Severino’s status just went from bad to worse for the New York Yankees. The team is shutting down the ace for six weeks.

The New York Yankees can’t catch a break. Luis Severino won’t throw for six weeks after suffering a lat strain according to James Wagner of the New York Times. The injury is seemingly unrelated to his previous ailment.

At this point, the Yankees must plan to be without Severino for most of the season. The right-hander won’t start throwing until late May. Even if he’s feeling 100 percent healthy, he’ll need significant time to build his arm strength up.

Furthermore, the Yankees won’t be rushing Severino back under any circumstances. New York recently signed Sevy to a four-year, $40 million contract with a club option in 2023.

This news forces general manager Brian Cashman to reassess the team’s starting rotation. Dallas Keuchel is still a free agent and if he could be coaxed into signing a one-year deal, perhaps the Yanks will jump on him.

However, Cashman doesn’t need to panic and make any moves yet. CC Sabathia is nearing his return to the rotation from suspension and injury. Moreover, Gio Gonzalez is rounding into form in Scranton.

Furthermore, the bullpen becomes even more important. Manager Aaron Boone is quick to pull starters—even proven veterans like Masahiro Tanaka aren’t immune from the quick hook. Guys like Adam Ottavino, Aroldis Chapman, Dellin Betances and Zack Britton will need to live up to their reputations.

If six weeks comes and goes without any significant progress for Severino, Cashman might look to the trade market. Until then, the Yanks will see if the current rotation can find success without its ace.


NY/NJ hoops reporter (NBA/NCAA) & sports betting writer for XL Media. Never had the makings of a varsity athlete.