New York Yankees: Five key players already on the Injured List
Arguably one of the best setup men in baseball, Betances started the season on the IL and will not join the Yankees for a few more weeks. He has been sidelined since March 19 with a right shoulder impingement.
He has been a full-blown force for the Yankees, ever since 2014. In each of his last 5 seasons, he has struck out over 100 batters in less than 90 innings. If there is a pitcher New York wants on the mound, to keep the game close, while their closer Aroldis Chapman gets loose. Supposed to be their 8thinning man, to come up in clutch situations to keep a lead his absence leaves this team with a whole new look.
His velocity has been significantly down due to the injury. The four-time All-Star is crucial to the team’s pitching staff and his loss is going to negatively impact the club. His return is not as urgent as other players because of the team’s latest free agency signings, such as Zack Britton and Adam Ottavino.
These new additions will help suffice Betances’ absence. The New York Yankees expect him to continue his assignments this week and hopefully can start to face live batters next week.