The New York Yankees secured a 1-0 lead in the ALCS against the Cleveland Guardians on Monday with a 5-2 victory, thanks to an outstanding performance from left-handed starter Carlos Rodón. Rodón delivered six elite innings, allowing just one earned run and striking out nine. While Rodón was the star of Game 1, fellow left-handed starter Nestor Cortes is still recovering from injury.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone mentioned there was some consideration of placing Cortes on the ALCS roster, but ultimately decided he wasn’t quite ready. “We’re really excited about how his throwing program has gone since he started,” Boone shared. “He had his first bullpen session yesterday, felt good today, and will throw another one on Wednesday. If that goes well, he could do a live session over the weekend.”
Boone acknowledged that Cortes is likely a few days away from being ready for this series but expressed optimism about his progress. According to an October 14 report by SNY’s Phillip Martinez, if Cortes continues to improve, he could be a key addition for the World Series roster.
Cortes, who suffered a flexor strain in his left elbow on September 25, has not pitched since. Despite being left off the current ALCS roster, there’s hope that he could still play a role in the Yankees’ postseason run.
