Yankees exercise caution with Rizzo as Hamilton nears return

Amanda Paula
Tuesday August 20, 2024

Table of Contents

The New York Yankees, locked in a tight race for the best record in the American League, are proceeding with caution regarding injured first baseman Anthony Rizzo and reliever Ian Hamilton as they prepare for a crucial series against the Cleveland Guardians.

Rizzo recovery update

The New York Yankees are proceeding with caution regarding Anthony Volpe as they prepare for a crucial series against the Cleveland Guardians.
CBS

Anthony Rizzo, out since mid-June with a fractured arm, continues to progress, but the Yankees are not rushing his return. Manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism about Rizzo’s condition but noted the need for full healing before he reenters the lineup.

“Rizzo looked really good swinging the bat today,” Boone said. “He feels great, and the strength is there, but we need to ensure his arm is fully healed to prevent any setbacks.”

Rizzo recently underwent imaging, which showed progress, but doctors want to see further improvement. No timeline has been provided for his return. Despite the injury, Rizzo made solid contact during live batting practice against right-hander Ian Hamilton, who was impressed with his performance.

Before the injury, Rizzo was hitting .223 with eight home runs and 28 RBIs. The Yankees have struggled to replace his production, with rookie Ben Rice slumping after a hot start.

Hamilton nears return

Reliever Ian Hamilton is under close watch as the New York Yankees prepare for a crucial series against the Cleveland Guardians.
@jade ⁹ ⁷ ⁺ ³ ⁵/Twitter

Ian Hamilton, sidelined since mid-June, threw live batting practice on Tuesday, facing Rizzo and bench coach Brad Ausmus. Hamilton reported feeling “a little rusty” but was otherwise satisfied with his session.

Boone praised Hamilton’s performance, saying, “Good to see him get two ups today. I thought the stuff was good.”

No date has been set for Hamilton’s next outing, but he appears close to rejoining the bullpen. Before his injury, Hamilton posted a 4.55 ERA in 27 appearances.

Poteet rehab assignment

In other injury news, right-hander Cody Poteet will begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Somerset. Poteet has been out since June with a triceps strain.

As the Yankees push for the postseason, the health of key players like Rizzo and Hamilton will be critical to their success.

What do you think? Leave your comment below.

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x

Join the Pinstripes Nation!

Your Daily Dose of Yankees Magic Delivered to Your Inbox

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Don't Miss Any of the Latest Yankees News, Rumors, and Exclusive Offers!