The New York Yankees Injury Concerns
In a surprising turn of events, the New York Yankees, who have been dominating the 2022 baseball season, are facing some injury concerns. Starting pitcher Luis Severino has been placed on the 15-day Injured List (IL) due to a lat strain.
A Dominant Team
The New York Yankees have emerged as the best team in baseball this season, boasting an impressive 64-28 record. Their winning percentage stands at a remarkable .696, falling slightly short of the 70% mark. With a comfortable 14-game lead in the AL East, the Yankees are clearly setting the pace. Only the Los Angeles Dodgers have also surpassed the 60-win milestone.
The Odds Are in Their Favor
With their exceptional performance, the Yankees are favored to win the 2022 World Series. At +400 odds, they are considered strong contenders. The only team surpassing them in the odds is the Dodgers, with a slight advantage at +380 according to DraftKings’ MLB futures page.
A Respite from Injuries
Unlike previous seasons plagued by numerous injuries, the Yankees have been fortunate in terms of their overall health this spring and summer. Yankee Stadium, often jokingly referred to as the Bronx ER due to the team’s injury woes, has been relatively empty. However, the recent injury to Luis Severino raises concerns.
The Rise and Fall of Luis Severino
Luis Severino has had a promising career, showcasing great potential in his early years in the majors. During the 2017 and 2018 seasons, he maintained an impressive win percentage of 70% across 63 starts, posting a 3.18 ERA. In 2017, he went 14-6 with a stellar 2.98 ERA and 1.04 WHIP. The following season, Severino recorded a 19-8 record, accompanied by a 3.39 ERA and 1.14 WHIP.
However, Severino’s career took a turn for the worse when he fell victim to injuries in 2019, appearing in just three games. In 2020, he underwent Tommy John surgery, resulting in his absence from the field for almost two full seasons. Last season, the Yankees opted to ease him back into the game, utilizing him primarily out of the bullpen in four appearances.
This year, Severino found himself as the fifth man in the starting rotation, allowing him to operate with less pressure. So far, he has played in 16 games, accumulating a 5-3 record, a 3.45 ERA, and a 1.07 WHIP.
A Setback on the Mound
During a recent game against the Cincinnati Reds, disaster struck for Severino. He woke up with a tight shoulder but hoped it would loosen up during warmups. However, his shoulder condition worsened, and he took the mound, only to give up three consecutive home runs in the second inning.
In an attempt to alleviate the discomfort, Severino threw a few warmup pitches before the third inning. Ultimately, the tightness forced him to exit the game. Subsequent MRI results revealed a lat strain, leading the Yankees to place him on the IL. Additionally, the team determined that Severino should refrain from picking up a ball for at least two weeks, indicating a potential extended period on the IL.
The Yankees’ Alternatives
While Severino’s absence poses a challenge for the Yankees, they are fortunate to have viable options to fill the void. Domingo German, who recently returned from the IL after a rehab start in AAA, will seamlessly slot back into the rotation following the All-Star Break.
Moreover, the Yankees could turn to left-handed pitcher JP Sears, who has already made two starts this season and also provided relief in Severino’s ill-fated game against the Reds. Another possible recourse lies in calling up Clarke Schmidt from AAA.
However, if Severino’s shoulder injury requires an extended absence, the Yankees may explore the trade market to acquire a reliable pitcher. One potential target is Luis Castillo from the Cincinnati Reds, who has been the subject of trade rumors involving multiple teams. Castillo currently holds a record of 3-4 this season, accompanied by an impressive 2.77 ERA and 1.08 WHIP.
The Yankees have also shown interest in Frankie Montas from the Oakland A’s. Despite his team’s last-place standing and lack of run support, Montas has consistently competed hard in each start. With a respectable 3.26 ERA and 1.09 WHIP, he has caught the attention of Yankees scouts and management.
Conclusion
The New York Yankees, known for their dominant performance this season, are now facing a hurdle with Luis Severino’s lat strain. As the team’s best pitcher in previous years, Severino’s recent setback is cause for concern. However, with the return of Domingo German from the IL and potential reinforcements from within the organization or through trades, the Yankees have viable alternatives to navigate through this challenging period.
FAQs
1. When will Luis Severino return to the Yankees’ lineup?
As of now, Severino’s return date is uncertain. The Yankees have placed him on the 15-day Injured List (IL) due to a lat strain. Depending on his recovery and progress, he could be out for an extended period.
2. Who will replace Severino in the Yankees’ starting rotation?
The Yankees have a couple of options to fill the void left by Severino. Domingo German, who recently returned from the IL, will rejoin the rotation after the All-Star Break. Additionally, they could consider pitchers like JP Sears or Clarke Schmidt, who have shown promise in their limited appearances this season.
3. Are the Yankees actively exploring trade options to bolster their pitching staff?
If Severino’s injury requires a longer absence, the Yankees may look to the trade market to acquire a reliable pitcher. Players like Luis Castillo from the Cincinnati Reds and Frankie Montas from the Oakland A’s have been linked to trade rumors, with the Yankees expressing interest in their services.
4. How has Severino’s career been affected by injuries?
After a strong start to his career, Severino’s progress was hindered by injuries. In 2019, he played in only three games before being sidelined. A season-ending Tommy John surgery in 2020 further delayed his return to the field, limiting him to just four bullpen appearances last season. This year, Severino’s lat strain has once again interrupted his contributions to the team.
5. Can the Yankees maintain their success without Severino?
While Severino’s absence is undoubtedly a blow to the Yankees’ roster, they have proven to be a resilient team. With a strong lineup and other capable pitchers in their rotation, they have the potential to overcome this setback and continue their winning ways. The Yankees’ success this season has not relied solely on one player, and they will rally together to sustain their dominance.
