Yankees pitcher Nestor Cortes is on track for a potential return to the New York Yankees roster if the team progresses to the World Series.
Cortes was scheduled to throw batting practice on Wednesday at Yankee Stadium as the team prepared to travel to Cleveland, holding a 2-0 lead in the American League Championship Series. The 29-year-old left-hander has not seen game action since September 18 due to a flexor strain in his pitching elbow.
“I think he’s at least a realistic option,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone. “Not saying for sure, but the timeline aligns well enough that, if everything goes smoothly, he could definitely be an option.”
Cortes has a record of 9-10 with a 3.77 ERA. He may have the opportunity to throw batting practice again this weekend, allowing the Yankees to assess his readiness before the World Series, which is set to begin on October 22 or 25.
“He’s got steps to go, and he’s got to continue to feel good and bounce back,” Boone noted. “But the way it’s gone so far has been encouraging.”
The Yankees will resume their best-of-seven series against Cleveland on Thursday, with fans eagerly awaiting the possibility of Cortes’ return to the mound.
