It won’t be long before Jake Cousins returns to the mound for the New York Yankees. The right-hander faced an injury scare during his last appearance on September 19 against the Seattle Mariners, where he threw only six pitches with reduced velocity before exiting the game. He was subsequently placed on the 15-day injured list with a right pectoral strain.
However, the outlook improved just two days later. Team sources reported that Cousins left his visit with Dr. Chris Ahmad, the team’s physician, feeling “very encouraged.” An MRI revealed no significant damage to the pectoral muscle. With the injury less severe than initially feared, Cousins is set to rest for a few days before resuming throwing, targeting October 5—Game 1 of the ALDS—for his return.
Cousins, acquired from the Chicago White Sox for cash considerations on March 31, has been a key addition to the Yankees’ bullpen. After being called up from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on June 27, he posted a 2.34 ERA and 1.05 WHIP, striking out 48 batters while issuing 17 walks. His development of a devastating slider earned him more high-leverage opportunities over the summer, eventually becoming one of the team’s top setup men.
Despite Cousins’ absence, the Yankees’ bullpen has excelled. Since September 6, they’ve allowed only nine runs (seven earned) over 58.1 innings, boasting a stellar 1.08 ERA. With Cousins expected to return for the playoffs, New York’s relief corps could be even stronger heading into the postseason.
