The New York Yankees are on the verge of making a crucial decision regarding Nestor Cortes, the ace left-hander who has missed significant time with a left elbow flexor strain. Cortes, who last took the mound on September 18, is now facing a World Series roster decision that could potentially have massive implications for both the player and the team.
Yankees management, who has been dealing with injuries all season, is well-versed in navigating roster conundrums. However, Cortes' situation presents a unique challenge – one that requires careful consideration and risk assessment. There are valid concerns that inserting Cortes into the high-stakes environment of the World Series could exacerbate his elbow issue, leading to further setbacks and prolonging his recovery.
Cortes, for his part, is reportedly champing at the bit to return to the rotation. Having been out for nearly two months, the lefty has worked tirelessly to rehab and rebuild his strength. If given a clean bill of health, Cortes would undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the Yankees' pitching staff, bringing a proven track record of clutch performances and a level of postseason savvy that is difficult to quantify.
Ultimately, the decision to include Cortes on the World Series roster will rest squarely on the shoulders of manager Aaron Boone and the team's front office. And while the prospect of having a healthy Cortes on the roster is undoubtedly enticing, caution and prudence must prevail in this instance. The stakes are simply too high to gamble with the left-hander's long-term health.
The Yankees can ill afford to rush Cortes back, especially given the length of his layoff and the lingering uncertainty surrounding his elbow. Doing so could result in a subpar performance that not only puts the team at risk of falling behind in a crucial series, but also jeopardizes Cortes' chances of a full and speedy recovery.
Given the potential risks and rewards at play, the Yankees' decision on Cortes will likely be an excruciating one. However, by weighing the consequences and carefully assessing the situation, the team can make an informed decision that balances the short-term needs of the club with the long-term well-being of their prized lefty.