New York Yankees’ reliever Dellin Betances took a step closer to returning where he threw to live batters at Yankee Stadium Tuesday. Following the simulated game, Betances said that this is probably the best he has felt in the rehab process.
Betances threw 22 pitches during the live bullpen, flashing fastballs and offspeed pitches. Slugger Giancarlo Stanton was one of the hitters who faced Betances, who was fanned on an offspeed pitch of which he chased. Stanton then hit one into the gap in right-center. Other Yankee hitters that Betances threw against was Clint Frazier and Tyler Wade who both fanned against him.
Dellin Betances vs. Giancarlo Stanton at Yankee Stadium. pic.twitter.com/i4zuQ6jaAc
— Pete Caldera (@pcaldera) September 3, 2019
Betances said he was happy about the way the ball was coming out of his hand and believes that his stuff is sharp enough to get big league hitters out. He’s encouraged that he will make a late-season comeback for the Yankees.
“I thought he looked really good,” said manager Aaron Boone. “It was really exciting today to see him throw the ball the way he did. I thought the command was good.” In regards to what’s next for Betances, Boone went on, “We’ll see how he bounces back tomorrow if everything goes well, then he could be out pitching maybe with (Luis Severino) this weekend.”
The 31-year-old has been sidelined all season dealing with a lat injury. His rehabbing has been inconsistent which has caused him to miss significant time. Teammate and impact pitcher Luis Severino has also not seen the field this season dealing with a similar injury. The return of both players would ultimately help the New York Yankees greatly as they seek their 29th Championship.