The New York Yankees are on the cusp of clinching the AL East, driven by a season marked with significant performances and unforeseen challenges. At the top of the list of recent hurdles is the loss of left-hander Nestor Cortes, who has been sidelined due to a flexor strain and placed on the 15-day injured list. Cortes’ absence will extend until October 5, aligning his potential return with Game 2 of the ALDS.
This injury is a significant blow to the Yankees' rotation. Cortes, 29, has been a stalwart this season, leading the team with 31 starts and accumulating 174 1/3 innings pitched. His ERA stands at 3.77, with a FIP of 3.83 and an xERA of 3.65. Impressively, he recently pitched 4 1/3 hitless innings to secure a save, highlighting his critical role in the Yankees’ pitching staff.
The Yankees were nearly at full strength on the mound before Cortes' injury, save for the absence of Jonathan Loáisiga. This depth had provided them with the luxury of having six starters for five rotation spots. With Cortes now on the injured list, the Yankees have called up Cody Poteet to fill the void. Poteet is expected to take on the role of the long man in the bullpen.
In a strategic move, Marcus Stroman will rejoin the rotation to start Wednesday's game, providing some much-needed stability during this crucial period. As the Yankees look to clinch the AL East, they are acutely aware that one more victory or an Orioles’ loss will seal the division title.
Currently holding a 92-65 record, the Yankees have already secured a postseason berth. However, the quest for the AL East crown remains a priority as it would ensure a more favorable seeding in the playoffs. The recent loss to the Orioles with a score of 5-3 underscores the unpredictable nature of baseball, where every game counts—particularly at this stage of the season.
The upcoming three-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates this weekend presents a pivotal opportunity for the Yankees. Given the stakes, every pitch, every at-bat, and every strategic decision will be closely scrutinized. If the Yankees manage to clinch the division title, it will mark a significant milestone in their postseason journey.
Another layer of complexity is added by playoff rules, as players cannot be added to a postseason roster mid-series unless replacing an injured player. Therefore, Cortes' health and readiness by October 5 are critical to the Yankees' postseason aspirations. His return could significantly bolster the Yankees’ pitching arsenal, potentially making a decisive impact.
As the ALDS approaches, the Yankees and their fans will be watching closely, hoping for a smooth navigation through these final regular-season hurdles. The team’s performance without Cortes will be particularly telling as they strive to maintain their momentum and secure their first AL East title in years. The next few games against the Orioles and Pirates will be more than just matches—they are crucial steps in a postseason path that the Yankees hope will lead to glory.