Yerry De los Santos is making noteworthy progress in his rehabilitation as he recovers from right elbow discomfort, which has sidelined him since June 18. The Yankees reliever expressed optimism following a successful 20-pitch bullpen session held on Saturday at Citi Field.
De los Santos, 27, discussed his cautious approach this time around. He remarked on having experienced similar discomfort in the past, which he attempted to play through unsuccessfully. “This time, it was the same sensation — it’s kind of like not being able to finish your pitches — so I wanted to be smart and get ahead of it early,” he noted, highlighting his commitment to a more prudent recovery path.
Manager Aaron Boone mentioned that De los Santos’s throwing session is a positive step in his rehabilitation process. Previously, the reliever had engaged in a “touch and feel” bullpen session, and Boone indicated that De los Santos might face live hitters in the near future, although no specific timeline has been set for his return to gameplay.
With a remarkable 1.80 ERA and 13 strikeouts across 20 innings in three stints this season, De los Santos’s return could significantly benefit the Yankees’ bullpen. “I’ve got to go day-by-day, see how I feel tomorrow, and then talk with the trainers to get a better idea of my return,” he added. The encouraging signs point towards a potential comeback in the near future.
In other Yankees news, Cody Bellinger made his first start at first base this season, allowing manager Aaron Boone to craft a left-handed-heavy lineup against Mets right-hander Frankie Montas. This move highlights Bellinger’s versatility, as he has primarily played outfield since joining the Yankees, though he has experience at first base from his tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs.
Additionally, Boone provided updates on left-hander Ryan Yarbrough, noting that he is nearing the point of being able to play catch again following a right oblique strain. The manager emphasized that Yarbrough feels he is “finally getting over the hump,” suggesting that he could resume throwing fairly soon.
As both De los Santos and Yarbrough make strides in their recovery, the Yankees appear poised to enhance their roster depth in the coming weeks, fostering hope for improved team performance as they head further into the season.