Yankees pitcher avoids surgery, announces he is hopeful to return this season
The New York Yankees may be a getting a pitcher back ahead of the MLB playoffs.
New York Yankees reliever Fernando Cruz announced he hopes to return this season after avoiding immediate surgery for a partial right UCL tear. Diagnosed in late August, Cruz received a cortisone injection and began a rehab protocol instead of proceeding with surgery. His return depends on how his arm responds to treatment and throwing in the coming days.
Across 61 appearances this season, Cruz has posted a 3.13 ERA with 67 strikeouts across 54 2/3 innings. His strikeout ability and reliability have made him a valuable asset in high-leverage situations, particularly in the late innings. With the Yankees in a tight American League wild card race, every available weapon matters as the season winds down.
Cruz's value is highlighted by his ability to miss bats, a crucial factor in crucial late-game moments. While delaying surgery presents risks for a pitcher with a partial UCL tear, for Cruz, a 36-year-old reliever with playoff aspirations, it is a calculated risk worth taking. The next week of throwing will provide the Yankees with crucial information about the success of this gamble.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
