Yankees face deep bullpen shortage as Cruz lands on IL
Right-hander Fernando Cruz was placed on the 60-day injured list with elbow trouble, leaving New York with a significant gap in its relief corps.
Fernando Cruz was moved to the 60-day injured list on Wednesday due to right elbow discomfort, creating a sizable hole in the Yankees' bullpen. Boone noted the club will evaluate its remaining arms and decide how to fill the gap. The trio of David Bednar, Paul Blackburn and Brent Headrick has been effective, though workload concerns linger, and Tim Hill continues to be used mainly against left-handed hitters.
Out of the mix are Camilo Doval and Jake Bird, who were traded, and Kervin Castro, now sidelined with elbow neuritis that may need surgery. Prospects such as Clarke Schmidt, Ryan Weathers, Will Warren, Angel Chivilli, Luis Gil and recent signings Michael Fulmer and Justin Topa are being considered for relief roles, though many carry uncertainties.
Why it matters
The Yankees' postseason chances hinge on how quickly they can replace a key reliever amid a thin bullpen.
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