The New York Yankees are tantalizingly close to clinching the AL East title, sitting just one win away from sealing the division. However, the path to achieving this milestone has hit a minor snag with the announcement that left-hander Nestor Cortes has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a flexor strain.
At 29 years old, Cortes has been a critical component of the Yankees' rotation. He leads the team with 31 starts and a commendable 174 1/3 innings pitched. Boasting a 3.77 ERA, a 3.83 FIP, and a 3.65 xERA, Cortes has consistently performed at a high level throughout the season. Most recently, he delivered 4 1/3 hitless innings to secure a save, underscoring his importance to the pitching staff.
The timing of the injury is particularly crucial, as Cortes will be out until October 5, which coincides with Game 2 of the ALDS. This absence leaves the Yankees navigating a tightrope with their pitching arsenal, especially considering that the team was nearly at full strength on the mound prior to this setback, with the notable exception of Jonathan Loáisiga's absence.
Pitching Adjustments
In response to Cortes' injury, the Yankees have called up Cody Poteet to fill the void. Poteet is expected to assume the role of the long man in the bullpen, a task that requires durability and versatility. Additionally, Marcus Stroman will rejoin the rotation to start Wednesday's game, an adjustment designed to shore up the starting pitching in Cortes' absence.
Before Cortes' injury, the Yankees faced the enviable dilemma of having six starters for five rotation spots, a luxury few teams possess this late in a season. With the postseason berth already secured thanks to a 92-65 record, the Yankees are focused on clinching the AL East for a more favorable postseason seeding. A single victory or an Orioles' defeat would ensure the division title for New York.
Crucial Matches Ahead
The Yankees' recent 5-3 loss to the Orioles on Tuesday adds a bit of pressure as they head into a three-game set against the Pittsburgh Pirates this weekend. Given the current standings, even one more win or an Orioles' loss would suffice to lock up the division. These upcoming games are pivotal, not just for the team’s immediate goal of securing the AL East crown, but also for setting a tone going into October baseball.
Eyes on ALDS
While Cortes’ scheduled return on October 5 is anxiously awaited, it aligns perfectly with the need for a strong rotation in the ALDS. However, the rules stipulate that players cannot be added to a postseason roster mid-series unless replacing an injured player, narrowing the options for any last-minute adjustments. Therefore, the onus will be on the Yankees to perform at their peak without Cortes during this critical period.
The Yankees' roster strategy and performance in these remaining games will be scrutinized closely as they navigate the final stretch. With so much riding on each game, every decision by the management will come under the microscope, especially concerning pitching rotation and bullpen utilization.
As Cortes rehabilitates and prepares for a timely return, the Yankees must rally to ensure they secure that all-important divisional title, setting them up for a robust postseason campaign. The forthcoming games against the Orioles and the Pirates are set to be a test of their mettle and resilience, likely shaping the trajectory of their postseason journey.