Before the MLB elected to shut down operations for the foreseeable future, the New York Yankees were dealing with their own pandemic consisting of injuries.
Luis Severino had already been ruled out for the entire 2020 campaign, and both James Paxton and Giancarlo Stanton were rehabbing from separate injuries. Factor in Aaron Judge’s issues, and you could make the argument the baseball gods were punishing the Yankees.
However, while Corona Virus has shut down a majority of the world, the Bombers have been holed up in Tampa, slowly recovering. Manager Aaron Boone expressed his optimism over the three injured players, stating that they could all be healthy for the start of the 2020 regular season.
As for Paxton and Stanton, though, they are doing fantastic, according to Boone (NJ.com):
“Pax just started throwing, he’s doing really well,†Boone said. “Giancarlo’s doing really well.â€
Pushing back the start of Opening Day has a silver lining, and it’s the health of the Yankees’ top players. Boone agrees, commenting:
“There’s no question this is going to give those guys an opportunity to be part of our season from the start,†Boone said. “It’s a little bit exciting.â€
The New York Yankees staff/players are preparing to part ways:
While the Yankees players unanimously voted to stay in Tampa and work out informally, some players and coaches are preparing to make the trip back to New York or their designated homes to be with family during these trying times.
Of course, preparing for the start of the season is essential, but projections have Opening Day at least six weeks away as the USA prepares to face the worst of the virus. Ensuring player health and safety is of the utmost importance at this point, especially after a minor league in the Yankees organization tested positive with the virus.
Here at Empire Sports Media, we are hoping you are safe and healthy!Â