New York Yankees: Gary Sanchez escapes injury, Luke Voit not so much

New York Yankees, Luke Voit
Jun 14, 2019; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Yankees designated hitter Luke Voit (45) runs the bases after hitting a home run against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees enjoyed a clean sweep of the Boston Red Sox over the weekend in London, putting up a combined 29 runs in two games. However, two influential players, Gary Sanchez and Luke Voit, were forced out due to injury on two separate occasions.

Sanchez, who caught a ball on his left thumb, stated that the finger was sore and would need to be evaluated, but shouldn’t be cause for concern moving forward.

According to the NY Post:

“There was one pitch I caught in my thumb. It’s a little sore, we will see the next couple of days and see how I feel,’’ said Sanchez.

“Not yet, I am going to see them soon,’’ Sanchez said, when asked if he had undergone tests. “I think I am going to be fine, it’s just sore. Ice it well and it should be fine.’’

The All-Star catcher has had a fantastic season up to this point, seeing his defensive skills elevate one year after a tough campaign all around. He allowed 18 passed balls last season in 67 complete games, while only allowing five in 47 games this year. He’s also hitting much better — .261 BA with 23 homers and 54 RBIs, surpassing his numbers from last year while playing in 27 fewer games.


Luke Voit, the starting first baseman for the Bombers, pulled his lower abdomen running the bases after a fifth-inning double on Saturday. He was seeing jogging lightly on Sunday during practice but the injury is cause for concern

“There is concern. I don’t know yet if it will take him out of action for any extended periods. We will take advantage of the off day [Monday],’’ Cashman said before Sunday’s game, in which Voit didn’t play. “Currently no tests are scheduled. If they change that decision we will let you know. He said he is feeling better. I don’t think there is anything new from [Saturday night]. He had a little discomfort. If it is something that will take him off line for a period of time then I think it is going to take a few more days to figure that out.’’

I anticipate he will be placed on the 10-day injured list while he works his way back from the ailment. There’s no reason for him to play with Edwin Encarnacion on the roster and more than capable of filling in while he recovers. Abdomen issues can be sneaky and re-injuries are frequent with strain.

Especially when considering the flexibility required to play first base, it’s better the Yankees take it easy with Voit and ensure he’s 100% healthy before testing him out in live-action.