The New York Yankees might be without one of their key relief pitchers for over a month. Right-handed pitcher Luke Weaver is likely to miss four to six weeks after straining his hamstring during Sunday’s game, where the Yankees defeated the Los Angeles 7-3. The Yankees had a day off on Monday and have yet to confirm any injury updates or roster changes.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone recounted that Weaver felt discomfort during his warm-up and stretching, prompting an immediate change in the bullpen. Weaver, 31, transitioned to a full-time relief role last year and has been the Yankees’ most dependable reliever over the past two seasons. He stepped into the closer role late last year, replacing Devin Williams, who has also been sidelined recently. This season, Weaver boasts an impressive 0.70 ERA and a 0.70 WHIP over 25 2/3 innings, with 24 strikeouts.
In Weaver’s absence, Boone might rely more on Devin Williams, who recently closed a game against the Los Angeles Angels but has a 3.29 ERA in 13 2/3 innings due to his own workload management. The Yankees are also expected to activate Fernando Cruz from the injured list soon; Cruz has been impressive this year with a 2.66 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 23 2/3 innings. Without Weaver, Boone’s bullpen remains strong despite the early-season setbacks to Williams, Cruz, and Roashga.
Sunday’s win prevented the Yankees from a three-game sweep in LA, lifting their record to 36-22 and extending their lead in the AL East to six games. The Yankees are set to face the Cleveland Guardians at Yankee Stadium in a three-game series starting Tuesday night.
Fan Take: Luke Weaver’s injury is a significant setback for the Yankees’ bullpen, which has been a major asset this season. Baseball fans should watch closely how the team adjusts, as this could shape the Yankees’ postseason bullpen strategy and impact their quest for another championship.
