As the New York Yankees inch closer to clinching the AL East title, the team faces a significant hurdle with the loss of left-hander Nestor Cortes to a flexor strain. Cortes, who has been a key figure in the Yankees' rotation, has been placed on the 15-day injured list, sidelining him until October 5, coinciding with Game 2 of the ALDS.
At 29 years old, Cortes has played a pivotal role for the Yankees this season, leading the team in starts with 31 and logging 174 1/3 innings. His stats, including a 3.77 ERA, a 3.83 FIP, and a 3.65 xERA, highlight his consistency on the mound. Recently, he showcased his prowess by pitching 4 1/3 hitless innings to secure a save, underscoring his importance to the team's success.
Prior to Cortes' injury, the Yankees' pitching staff was nearly at full strength, with the only other notable absence being Jonathan Loáisiga. The team had the luxury of six starters vying for five rotation spots, a depth that now faces a critical test.
In response to Cortes' unavailability, the Yankees have called up Cody Poteet to fill the void. Poteet is set to assume the role of the long man in the bullpen, a position that will be crucial as the Yankees navigate this challenging period. Additionally, Marcus Stroman will rejoin the rotation and is slated to start Wednesday's game.
Despite the setback, the Yankees have already secured a postseason berth with a commendable 92-65 record. They now need just one more victory to clinch the AL East title. The team's recent 5-3 loss to the Orioles on Tuesday has added a layer of urgency to their upcoming games, but the Yankees remain optimistic about their chances. One more win or a loss by the Orioles would seal the division title for New York.
This weekend, the Yankees will face the Pittsburgh Pirates in a three-game series, with the division title within their grasp. With a postseason berth already in hand, securing the AL East crown would provide the Yankees with a more favorable seeding as they gear up for October baseball.
The absence of Cortes during this critical stretch will undoubtedly be a focal point. The Yankees' performance without him will be closely scrutinized as they aim to maintain their momentum. However, the team's depth and experience provide a measure of confidence as they approach these crucial games.
Looking ahead, Cortes' return on October 5 will be a welcome boost for the Yankees as they enter the postseason. It's important to note that players cannot be added to a postseason roster mid-series unless they are replacing an injured player. This rule underscores the importance of Cortes' health and readiness for Game 2 of the ALDS.
As the Yankees prepare for their final stretch of regular-season games and the impending postseason, the resilience and adaptability of the roster will be key factors. The upcoming games against the Orioles and Pirates will be decisive for the Yankees' pursuit of the AL East title, and the team will need to rally together to overcome the temporary loss of their ace.
In summary, the New York Yankees are on the verge of clinching the AL East title, but the injury to Nestor Cortes presents a significant challenge. With Cody Poteet stepping in and Marcus Stroman taking on increased responsibilities, the Yankees are poised to tackle this critical juncture with determination. Their depth and experience will be tested, but the goal of securing a favorable postseason position remains firmly within reach.