New York Yankees news, rumors: Yanks make changes to improve player health

Jul 20, 2019; Bronx, NY, USA New York Yankees first baseman Luke Voit (45) is attended to be manager Aaron Boone (17) and trainer Steve Donohue after being hit by a pitch against the Colorado Rockies during the fourth inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports

One of the biggest concerns the New York Yankees faced in 2019 was player health and the longevity of individual success. A majority of the outfield was plagued with the injury bug, as Aaron Judge missed significant time, Giancarlo Stanton remained sidelined for virtually the entire season, and Aaron Hicks is recovering from Tommy John surgery. Clearly, whatever the Yankees were doing in the health and wellness department was wayward, as the team broke the record for most time spent on the injured list by a large margin.

Due to the high number of injuries, the Bombers had no choice but to fire Matt Krause, who served as the team’s director of strength and conditioning since 2014. With 30 players spending time on the injured list last season, a move needed to be made.

However, the emergence of several reserve options helped drag the team to 103 total wins and an ALCS appearance. Aside from the outfield, the pitching was hit by the bug as well as the infield. Ace Luis Severino and relief arm Dellin Betances both picked up shoulder injuries in spring training, with the latter tearing his Achilles in his first action of the season on September 15.

More news and rumors from the New York Yankees:

I don’t want to beat a dead horse, but the Josh Hader talks continue. Of course, we will update you on any urgent news, but as of now, things are progressing slowly. The latest information indicates that the Brewers are willing to drop their price a bit, but they’re keen on adding Miguel Andujar and a quality prospect at the very least.

The Yankees’ No. 1 pitching prospect, Deivi Garcia, could be an option in a potential trade, as scouts have indicated that his ceiling might not be as high as some may think.

In all honesty, I donâ€™t understand the hype. Iâ€™ve seen him pitch a few times and the stuff just doesnâ€™t grade out to be a top of the line starter. Maybe with time he can develop since heâ€™s really young, but I just donâ€™t see top arm talent when I see him.â€

With the stuff he currently has, heâ€™s projecting to be a back-end starter. I think he could be good at the MLB level, but nothing special.

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