The New York Yankees have not had their ace all season, Luis Severino, who has suffered with shoulder problems all season. His recovery has been up and down and Yankee fans are beginning to wonder – will they see Severino take the mound at all this year?
Many reports have said that Severino should be returning late August, however, Severino’s rehab has been inconsistent all year. He’s been cleared to throw, then shut down. Cleared to throw, then shut down again. According to CBS Sports, Severino will need to complete a full spring training before the Yankees can consider activating from the 60-day injured list.
The Yankees’ righty is expected to begin throwing on flat-ground before heading into bullpen sessions. Severino’s pitch count will be highly monitored as he enters into throwing to avoid any other setbacks, per CBS Sports. This throwing program is expected to begin Monday.
A few days ago, Severino met with media where he said he wouldn’t mind taking on a bullpen role, per Coley Harvey of ESPN.com. “I just want to pitch. It doesn’t matter where or when, in the bullpen or as a starter. I just want to pitch” Luis said.
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Last season Severino posted a 3.39 ERA with a 19-8 record. In 191.1 innings pitched, he fanned 220 while only allowing 19 home runs. Severino averaged an astounding 10.3 strikeouts per nine innings pitched (Baseball reference).
Sevy’s return?
Severino’s return could be huge for the club. As they try to tack on their 28th World Series championship this year, having their ace available would be big. That being said, I personally don’t believe we will see Severino back on the mound for this season. His injury and rehab has been so inconsistent that I think it would be hard to put him back in a major league role after being sidelined all season. As much as I want to see “Sevy” take the mound again, I just don’t think it’ll happen.