New York Yankees: James Paxton has elbow discomfort; next man up!

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 15: James Paxton #65 of the New York Yankees in action against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium on August 15, 2020 in New York City. New York Yankees defeated the Boston Red Sox 11-5. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 15: James Paxton #65 of the New York Yankees in action against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium on August 15, 2020 in New York City. New York Yankees defeated the Boston Red Sox 11-5. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)

The New York Yankees could lose James Paxton who felt discomfort on his elbow.

You know, I’m not one for conspiracy theories.  In my mind, most things in this world can be explained. One thing I just can’t wrap my head around, however, is the insane number of injuries the New York Yankees seem to suffer on a yearly basis.

If you read my last piece on Gleyber Torres, you might have noticed a running list of top-flight Yankee players currently on the IL. Fortunately, Gleyber isn’t on that list yet.

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Neither is James Paxton, for that matter. Although, according to Yankees beat reporter Bryan Hoch, Paxton is having an MRI after feeling discomfort in his forearm/elbow.

Like Gleyber’s injury, this couldn’t have come at a worse time for Paxton who carried a no-hitter into the 5th inning before completely imploding against the Tampa Bay Rays. Paxton’s velocity has steadily been increasing and he was finally beginning to look like the number two starter on a Yankees rotation that is starving for more depth in their rotation.

What’s more, Paxton was also working on yet another unexplainable streak. In every one of his starts this season, Pax has allowed exactly 3 ER.

What’s the significance of this? Well, nothing, but it’s still pretty crazy, like Kris Davis’ streak of four seasons batting exactly .247.

Anyway, the New York Yankees needed James Paxton today as first place in the AL East was on the line. In the end, the team ended up having to turn to their bullpen to hold a potent Rays team down.

Unfortunately, the game opened up post-Paxton and the Yankees now hold sole possession of… 2nd place.

One of the more impressive characteristics of this Yankee team is their ability to replace guys on the roster with young up-and-comers. Unfortunately, if this trend continues, that well of talent will eventually run out.

Perhaps it’s time to make like Pedro Cerrano and get themselves a little good luck charm like Jobu.