Nestor Cortes has been sidelined for the New York Yankees since being placed on the injured list on Sept. 25. However, manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism on Monday, stating that there is a “good chance” Cortes will be added to the team’s World Series roster.
“I think there’s a good chance of it. He’s scheduled to throw another live bullpen session tomorrow,” Boone said. “So if everything goes well there, I would say there’s a decent chance he could be on the roster, yes.”
Cortes’ availability for the World Series will hinge on how he feels after his session on Tuesday. The left-hander previously threw a bullpen before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series on Saturday.
In 31 appearances (30 starts) this season, Cortes posted a 3.77 ERA with 162 strikeouts in 174 1/3 innings. His workload was second only to Carlos Rodón among Yankees starters.
After an MRI revealed a flexor strain in his left elbow on Sept. 18, Cortes had not pitched. He had been dealing with elbow tenderness for three weeks prior to that, and the discomfort intensified during a bullpen session, prompting the MRI.
Initially, a flexor strain raised concerns of a potentially season-ending injury, as it can lead to ligament damage requiring surgery. However, the imaging showed no harm to Cortes’ ulnar collateral ligament, leading to a recommendation of rest and rehab.
Fortunately for Cortes and the Yankees, the team’s extended postseason run allowed him to recover, making his return for the World Series a strong possibility.
While Cortes primarily served as a starter this season, he is expected to be utilized as a reliever in the World Series. His effectiveness against left-handed hitters, who batted just .204 with a .530 OPS against him, makes him a valuable asset in crucial situations. (Right-handers hit .256 with a .760 OPS against him, showcasing his versatility.)