Yankees’ Scott Effross nears MLB return after strong Triple-A performances

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Scott Effross could soon make his way back to the Major Leagues. Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake mentioned Tuesday that Effross has been performing exceptionally well at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, according to Chris Kirschner of The Athletic. Blake hinted that a call-up could be imminent.

Scott Effross nears MLB return

This news is a welcome relief for a Yankees team that has been plagued by injuries, ranking among the top 10 in MLB for the most injured rosters.

Scott Effross has shown significant improvement in his recent outings. In eight innings pitched this month, he has allowed only two runs, with his velocity steadily increasing. Blake noted that Effross has been bouncing back well after each appearance, a positive sign for the right-hander who last pitched in the majors in 2022. Effross, who has undergone both Tommy John and back surgeries, could be a critical asset for the Yankees’ bullpen as they push for the playoffs. In 2022, he posted a 2.54 ERA with a 62:15 K:BB ratio over 56.2 innings with the Cubs and Yankees.

Ian Hamilton’s rehab continues

In contrast, Ian Hamilton is expected to spend more time in the minors. After completing his second rehab game on Tuesday, Hamilton admitted that he is uncertain how much longer he will remain in the minors. Over his two rehab games, Hamilton has pitched 2.1 innings without allowing a hit or walk, striking out six batters.

The Yankees’ lineup has started to show signs of life after a difficult stretch in June and July. As of Wednesday, the team leads the league in wRC+ at 119, with much of the credit going to Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. However, the supporting cast, including Giancarlo Stanton, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Gleyber Torres, and Austin Wells, has also improved. Anthony Volpe is beginning to find his stride, while Alex Verdugo has shaken off his recent slumps with a strong performance against the Rockies.

Domínguez eyes potential call-up

To further enhance their offensive firepower, the Yankees might consider calling up Jasson Domínguez from Triple-A. Domínguez, who has recovered from Tommy John surgery and an oblique strain, has been putting up impressive numbers with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. His line stands at .305/.360/.453 with four home runs, 13 stolen bases, and a 112 wRC+.

Domínguez’s recent form has been particularly noteworthy. In his last 10 games dating back to August 14, he has slashed .415/.478/.610 with a 1.088 OPS, two home runs, and nine stolen bases. These performances have raised the possibility of a call-up, potentially at the expense of Verdugo’s at-bats.

Rizzo’s return on the horizon

Another potential addition to the Yankees’ roster is Anthony Rizzo. Manager Aaron Boone indicated that Rizzo’s performances in games on Tuesday and Wednesday would be critical in determining his readiness for a return to the majors. Rizzo, who homered on Wednesday, is expected to play in his fourth rehab game of the season as he inches closer to a comeback.

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