**Setback Halts Jon Berti’s Return to the Yankees**
Jon Berti was expected to play in rehab games this weekend, potentially giving the New York Yankees some much-needed infield depth as players like DJ LeMahieu have been underperforming. However, Berti will need more time on the sidelines due to a setback in his recovery, which will require PRP injections. Yankees manager Aaron Boone shared this update before tonight’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays, as the Yankees start a four-game home series against their AL East rivals.
This setback adds more pressure on Brian Cashman to find infield options before the July 30th trade deadline. The Yankees’ infield depth is already stretched thin, and Berti, one of their better options at second and arguably their best option at third base, was expected to begin a rehab assignment this week. The PRP injection will delay his return, and the team will need to monitor how he responds to the treatment. Berti, known for his speed and versatility, has been a solid player throughout his MLB career, including a strong season with the Miami Marlins last year.
For the Yankees, Berti had a 90 wRC+ with good defensive numbers at both third base and second base. With his absence, the Yankees will have to rely on DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera to hold the infield together as the trade deadline approaches. Gleyber Torres hasn’t had a great season either, but his 90 wRC+ is more tolerable compared to LeMahieu and Cabrera’s performances. There’s some hope that Torres can improve in the second half of the season.
Potential trade targets for the Yankees include Brandon Lowe, Isaac Paredes, Luis Rengifo, and Yandy Diaz. However, with many teams still in contention due to the third Wild Card spot, it’s uncertain who will be available. Brian Cashman faces a challenging task in making the necessary additions to strengthen the roster.
