One of many Yankees’ high relievers is again for the stretch run. Previous to Tuesday’s recreation towards the Nationals at Yankee Stadium, New York activated right-hander Fernando Cruz from the 15-day injured record.
Cruz, who was acquired from the Reds in a commerce for catcher Jose Trevino this previous offseason, has been sidelined since late June with a left indirect pressure. The 35-year-old had a 3.00 ERA with 54 strikeouts over 33 innings earlier than happening the IL. His 41.2% strikeout fee is the very best amongst pitchers with a minimum of 30 innings in 2025.
Cruz struck out two of the 5 Nationals batters he confronted Tuesday evening, turning it over to lefty Tim Hill after loading the bases with two singles and a hit-by-pitch.
“Actually excited to get him again,” mentioned supervisor Aaron Boone earlier than the Yankees’ 5-1 victory. “He is had an excellent yr, albeit with lacking a while now and having an earlier stint on the IL; however when he is been on the market, he is been terrific.”
And Boone made it clear he will not be afraid to make use of him.
“All fingers on deck; right here we go,” mentioned Boone. “I am not going to draw back from him. … We’ll watch out with again to backs, particularly on an extended outing and issues like that. We’ll attempt to handle him as finest we will, but it surely’s additionally go time and we count on him to be a key a part of the ‘pen transferring ahead.”
Cruz’s return comes at a pivotal time for the Bronx Bombers, who’re 5 1/2 again of the Blue Jays for first within the American League East and a half-game again of the Purple Sox for the highest AL Wild Card spot.
Though the membership added a number of relievers on the Commerce Deadline, its bullpen has continued to wrestle this month, recording a 4.29 ERA with six blown saves over 22 video games.
