Brett Gardner Hits DL; Yankees to Call Up Cody Eppley

The New York Yankees have placed outfielder Brett Gardner on their 15-day disabled list with what’s being described as a right elbow injury.  Yankees manager Joe Girardi told reporters that the club is going to call up right-hander Cody Eppley to replace Gardner on their roster.

Gardner sustained a bruised right elbow and muscle strain in his arm while making a diving catch Tuesday night.  According to Girardi, after taking batting practice earlier in the day Wednesday Gardner said his arm “felt fine”.  However, after taking additional swings before last night’s game Gardner told the club his arm was bothering him, prompting an MRI and discovery of the injury.

In place of Gardner, Girardi said he expects to deploy a combination of Raul Ibanez and Andruw Jones.  Girardi added that utility player Eduardo Nunez may also see some time in left field.

The Yankees are hoping that Eppley can provide the club with some much needed bullpen relief.  New York’s relievers have been taxed early this season due to inconsistent starting pitching.

Eppley, who was claimed off waivers from the Rangers earlier this month, made his major league debut with Texas last season.  Over his five seasons in the minors, Eppley has maintained an ERA and WHIP of 2.78 and 1.153 with 10.3 SO/9 and 2.7 BB/9.

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