Yankees await Tuesday bullpen session as Nestor Cortes eyes World Series roster spot, says Boone

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As the New York Yankees gear up for the World Series, Nestor Cortes’ health has become a key topic. Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed that Nestor Cortes, who has been recovering from a left elbow flexor strain, is trending in the right direction.

Nestor Cortes was scheduled to face live hitters on Tuesday, a crucial step as he aims to return to the Yankees roster after his last appearance on September 18.

As previously mentioned on Pinstripes Nation, Nestor Cortes is set to rejoin in the World Series. However, this afternoon (Tuesday), Aaron Boone said Cortes is likely to pitch just one inning.

Nestor Cortes balances risk

Boone addressed Nestor Cortes’ status during his weekly Talkin’ Yanks interview, explaining that if Tuesday’s session went well, Nestor Cortes could be included on the World Series roster. Boone added that there are still a few days to evaluate the situation, but he is optimistic. While Nestor Cortes may be limited in innings, Boone hinted that the lefty could pitch more than one inning but fewer than three.

Nestor Cortes himself has expressed his willingness to return, even acknowledging the risks involved. In an interview with The New York Post’s Greg Joyce, Nestor Cortes admitted that the possibility of needing surgery on his elbow remains. However, he emphasized that winning a World Series ring would make the sacrifice worth it, even if it meant taking a year off baseball to recover.

The Yankees’ caution with Nestor Cortes

The Yankees have been cautious with Nestor Cortes throughout the postseason. General Manager Brian Cashman previously vetoed the idea of Nestor Cortes joining the ALCS roster, citing concerns that Nestor Cortes hadn’t fully recovered. Since then, Nestor Cortes has participated in two simulated sessions, including one on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium where he threw 28 pitches across two simulated innings. Boone acknowledged that soreness is expected, but the real test will come on Wednesday, when the Yankees make their final roster decisions.

Nestor Cortes, who broke out during the 2022 season, has been lobbying for a spot in the bullpen. He envisions himself being used as a lefty specialist, a crucial role against a Los Angeles Dodgers lineup featuring dangerous left-handed hitters like Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Max Muncy. These hitters, while strong against lefties, perform even better against right-handed pitching, making Nestor Cortes a valuable asset.

The Yankees’ roster decisions

Boone also mentioned that the team is considering carrying 13 pitchers instead of the 12 they had during the ALCS. This shift would likely mean removing a position player from the roster, with speculation centering around either Trent Grisham or Jasson Dominguez, according to Talkin’ Yanks host Jomboy.

As the Yankees finalize their World Series roster, Nestor Cortes’ ability to return could significantly impact the series. His left-handed relief would be a valuable tool in neutralizing some of the Dodgers’ biggest offensive threats, and his determination to contribute—even at the potential cost of future playing time—speaks to the importance of this moment for him and the Yankees.

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