Two Yankees bullpen pieces, Ryan Yarbrough and Fernando Cruz, are closing in on returns from oblique injuries, with rehab sessions kicking off this week. Cruz threw 19 pitches in a live Double-A Somerset session, while Yarbrough advanced to two live-ups. Both are slated to begin rehab on Thursday, with Cruz possibly joining after a sequence of rehab starts and Yarbrough's usage depending on how he is built up and rotation needs. The move would add a much-needed boost to a relief corps that has felt the pinch from bullpen depth injuries.

Around the same time, Giancarlo Stanton logged field work in right, and Aaron Judge continued progress in his throwing program, though not yet expected to return for the Twins series. Oswaldo Cabrera, sidelined by a gruesome left ankle fracture and ligament damage since May, walked the clubhouse and provided a tempered outlook; his recovery remains murky. Cabrera slashed .243/.322/.308 with one homer and 11 RBI in 34 games this season, while Cruz sits at a 3.00 ERA across 32 games with a remarkable 41.2% strikeout rate. Yarbrough has struggled to a 3.90 ERA in 16 games, a reminder that his rehab timing will shape how the Yankees handle rotation and bullpen roles as Judge and Stanton push toward field readiness.

The New York Yankees faced a challenging situation on Monday night as outfielder Trent Grisham exited the game against the Toronto Blue Jays due to left hamstring tightness. This injury follows the recent addition of Fernando Cruz to the injured list and uncertainties regarding Austin Wells, who underwent testing for finger issues. Grisham, who has transitioned from being a fourth outfielder to a key player in the lineup, was having a solid season with a .244 batting average and 15 home runs in 71 games. The Yankees find themselves in a precarious position, trying to maintain their division lead while grappling with injuries that threaten to disrupt their momentum.

Fernando Cruz, the New York Yankees reliever, continues to impress with a staggering 40.7% strikeout rate, leading all of Major League Baseball. At 35 years old, Cruz's journey to this peak has been an arduous one, marked by perseverance and dedication. Drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 2007, he didn't make his MLB debut until 2022 after spending years honing his skills in Mexico. His standout performance this season includes striking out the side during a critical game against the Baltimore Orioles, showcasing his devastating splitter that has bewildered hitters.

As the Yankees acquired Cruz from the Cincinnati Reds during the offseason, his success story resonates with fans and players alike. His ability to dominate on the mound after a long wait for an opportunity highlights both his talent and the Yankees' keen eye for potential. Cruz's triumph is not just about stats; it symbolizes the relentless pursuit of dreams in the competitive world of baseball.

Luke Weaver's hamstring injury has put the New York Yankees in a challenging position as they prepare for the upcoming weeks. The closer was injured while warming up during a recent game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, leading to an unexpected call for Tim Hill to finish out the ninth inning instead. Weaver's 1.05 ERA and 8 saves this season underscore his significance to the Yankees' bullpen, prompting concerns about who will step into the closer role in his absence.

Manager Aaron Boone confirmed that Weaver is likely to be placed on the injured list after an MRI revealed potential four to six weeks on the sidelines. Meanwhile, the Yankees anticipate the return of veteran Fernando Cruz to help stabilize the bullpen. As the team navigates these adjustments, they may reconsider their options, possibly looking to reinstate Devin Williams in a closer role after his struggles earlier this season.

The New York Yankees have made a significant roster change by placing right-hander Fernando Cruz on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation, effective retroactively from May 19. Manager Aaron Boone had hinted at this decision earlier in the week. Fortunately, Cruz's MRI revealed no structural damage, and he remains optimistic about a return within two weeks. Prior to the injury, Cruz had a solid 3.27 ERA over 11 innings, showcasing his effectiveness in middle-inning situations. In light of this, the Yankees have recalled left-handed pitcher Brent Headrick from Triple-A, who has been impressive with a 3.38 ERA in 10 appearances at that level.

Headrick, claimed off waivers from the Minnesota Twins during the offseason, brings additional depth to the bullpen. With Ian Hamilton struggling and other relief options still working back from injuries, Headrick's addition is timely for the Yankees. His ability to provide length as a left-handed option could be invaluable as the team navigates through the remainder of the season. This move highlights the Yankees' focus on stabilizing their bullpen amidst ongoing challenges.