The New York Yankees are seeing some positive news on the injury front regarding Didi Gregorius, James Paxton, and Dellin Betances.
Help is on the way! The New York Yankees have been ravaged by injuries throughout the 2019 season. Fortunately, Didi Gregorius, James Paxton, and Dellin Betances are all inching closer to a return to the big league club.
It sounds like the Yankees are eyeing Wednesday against the San Diego Padres for Paxton’s return to the mound. The lefty starter has been struggling with left knee inflammation that’s kept him out for the last three-plus weeks.
“Hoping that he’s in line now to join the rotation,” Boone said to Brendan Kuty of NJ.com. “He’ll fly back to New York (Sunday) but we’ll all get together to make sure he’s ready to join us and make that call.”
Yankee fans have seen Paxton in the pinstripes this season, but Gregorius (Tommy John surgery) and Betances (right shoulder impingement) have yet to make their 2019 debuts.
Gregorius seems to be making major strides towards a return to the Bronx. Not many people expected Gregorius to return before July, but he’s on track to do just that. He is on his way to Scranton for a week or two. Obviously, once he has his rhythm back, he’ll take his place as the everyday shortstop.
Didi Gregorius is expected to be promoted to @swbrailriders on Tuesday, Aaron Boone said. Didi will need “a week or two” at AAA.
— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) May 26, 2019
The Yankees would love to have Betances back in the bullpen to help set up Aroldis Chapman. Fortunately for the Yanks, Betances is progressing towards throwing from a mound.
Dellin Betances is ready for the next step in his rehab. Boone said that Betances will throw from the mound tomorrow.
— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) May 26, 2019
A specific timetable for Betances’ return is still somewhat unclear. However, the bullpen has been solid even without Betances. The Yankees are fifth in the American League with a 3.88 bullpen ERA.
The Yankees have showcased their incredible depth throughout the 2019 season so far. Despite missing key contributors in the lineup, rotation, and bullpen, the Yankees are still in first place in the AL East. With stars like Gregorius, Paxton, and Betances on their way back, the Yankees could put some distance between themselves and the Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox.
